Minister lauds BALA for tackling accountability

Patricia Edwin
Staff Writer | Thursday August 9, 2012 00:00

The minister officially opened the event which attracted about 150 councillors across the country and delegates from local authorities in neighbouring countries like South Africa and Zambia.

'I am delighted that in this conference, you will pay attention to issues of accountability as enshrined in our national vision. Accountability means that we ought to open up and improve communication links between ourselves and the people we serve,' he said. He advised that councillors'conduct in their areas of operation should reflect political maturity and responsibility

He further revealed that the ministry would work with BALA to develop a code of conduct for councillors.  'You will also recall that the code of conduct is a product of the second local government presidential commission of 2001.

In this regard it should not be viewed as re-inventing the wheel,' said Siele. He implored councillors to prepare for the implementation of the Local Government Bill. 'This conference also comes at a time when Parliament has just passed the Local Government Bill on which we have to consult a lot,' he said.

'Your invaluable input, the input of the communities you represent and all other stakeholders have contributed tremendously towards bringing this bill to a logical conclusion,' said Siele. 'I urge all of you as you go back to your respective councils to prepare for its implementation. Of utmost importance is the area of property rates which has now been extended to the districts on a selective basis,' he said.

Siele said the recognition of BALA and the establishment of sub-councils and service centres as pronounced by the bill should be seen as determination to enhance decentralisation, democracy and devolution of power both at the district and the sub-district levels to ensure improved service delivery. 'The introduction of the new local government bill is also a blessing to BALA as an organisation because it has now been made part of the legislation,' said Siele.

He went on to say that the conference gives an opportunity to reflect on challenges faced by different local authorities and map out strategies on the way forward. 'It is therefore, my hope and desire that this conference will help us, not only as the ministry, but as local authorities to give credence to local governance in Botswana, and to further solidify our co-existence as partners in development with the ultimate objective of improving the life of our people,' he stated.

He went on to applaud BALA for inviting the private sector and NGOs to the conference, stating that successful economies are built by participation of both the public and the private sector. 'The private sector is highly viewed as the engine of economic growth for any country worldwide,' he said.