Bank arrears top P6bn
Friday, July 12, 2024 | 660 Views |
Day by day: The construction sector’s arrears to commercial banks are growing PIC: MORERI SEJAKGOMO
According to recently released Bank of Botswana data, various sectors of the economy, including households, owed commercial banks about P6.1 billion as at April 30. About P1.57 billion of this was classified as “specific provisions” which means arrears that are more than 180 days overdue, regarded as being in the worst category of defaulters.
By comparison, in March, total commercial bank arrears were estimated at P5.8 billion, with specific provisions of P1.56 billion.
When claims of such gravity are made, especially by a sitting Assistant Minister they cannot be brushed aside, delayed, or treated as routine political noise. Even the Ombudsman has confirmed receipt of a report from a political party and a review of these complaints is now underway. That is a necessary first step. But it is only the beginning. The seriousness of the allegations demands urgency, transparency and clarity. The public is entitled to...