One day in September: How Choppies fell

Five days before his suspension as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the regional grocer, Ramachandran Ottapathu submitted a restructuring proposal to turn the group around. When the Board met to consider the proposal, it also decided to suspend him. The drama in May actually began eight months earlier, in September, notes Staff Writer, MBONGENI MGUNI

But for the events on September 29, Choppies’ well-told tale of humble beginnings from a single store in Lobatse to a seven-country giant, would have remained unblemished.

In future, those who chronicle Choppies’ history will of necessity include the group’s dramatic fall in value last year, the suspension from trade that has ankle-cuffed shareholders to an uncertain future, the behind-the-scenes battle that felled the CEO and the overpowering odour of scandal.

Editor's Comment
Gov't must guard against cadre deployment

As the Botswana National Front (BNF) discusses a policy to place suitably qualified members in strategic positions, the guiding consideration should remain whether an individual is the best person to serve the country. There is nothing wrong with qualified party members applying for public positions. Political affiliation should neither disqualify a capable candidate nor give them an advantage over others. Every Motswana deserves a fair...

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