Mmegi

Concerns mount over cost of police vehicle outsourcing

The partnership, signed on Wednesday, will see the Botswana Police Service receive a total of 28 vehicles.PIC.BPS
The partnership, signed on Wednesday, will see the Botswana Police Service receive a total of 28 vehicles.PIC.BPS

Public reaction has been swift and divided following the Botswana Police Service (BPS)’s decision to partner with Avis Rent a Car in a 12-month pilot project to outsource vehicles for operational use. Many citizens are expressing concern over the potential financial implications of the arrangement.

Across social media platforms, a significant number of commentators questioned the cost-effectiveness of leasing vehicles, arguing that the move could place an unnecessary burden on public funds at a time when the country is grappling with economic challenges.

Central to their concerns is the lack of clarity on how much the government will pay the car rental company on a monthly and annual basis. Some members of the public estimated that the deal could cost an average of P3.5 million over the 12 months, excluding fuel, maintenance, and possible accident-related expenses. This, they argue, raises serious questions about whether the same funds could instead be used to procure a permanent fleet of vehicles for the police service.

Editor's Comment
Public servants deserve better than union infighting

‘The strongest bond of human sympathy outside the family relation should be one uniting working people of all nations and tongues and kindreds’.- Abraham LincolnUntil then, the Council’s operations remain suspended, delaying critical decisions affecting thousands of public sector employees.The current standoff is between the Manual Workers Union on one side and the Six Cooperating Trade Unions, namely BONU, BOPEU, BTU, BDU, BOSETU and...

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