Emma Peloetletse, the Permanent Secretary to the President (PSP), has disclosed that if former President Lt. Gen. Dr. Ian Khama assumes a position in Bogosi, as he has announced, the government will be left with no choice but to observe as he draws two salaries from Botswana’s coffers.
At a welcoming ceremony in Serowe last weekend, Khama, who has spent nearly three years in self-imposed exile in South Africa, proclaimed his intention to claim his seat in the Ga-Mmangwato Kgotla as the paramount chief. However, he did not specify an exact date, noting that he must first consult with his uncles. It is certain, however, that he will assume the role post-elections. Confirmations indicate Khama will aid the Botswana Patriotic Front (BPF) in canvassing for votes as the elections approach at the end of next month.
The question arises: will Khama forfeit any privileges as a former president upon taking up the paramount chief role? Peloetletse addressed this, stating, “He will be reporting to the Minister of Local Government and Rural Development and will not be allowed to engage in politics.” As a former president, Khama remains under presidential care. He has conceded that he will relinquish his patronship role at the BPF to concentrate on leading his Morafe, which has been without a paramount chief for nearly a century.
Despite the government’s efforts, they will be powerless following the withdrawal of the former President and Vice President Amendments Bill. “Monetary benefits-wise, he will be double-dipping,” the PSP remarked. “We had attempted to prevent this through the new Presidential Benefits law, which was, unfortunately, withdrawn.”
Peloetletse elaborated, “A clause was introduced addressing gainful employment. Essentially, if the former President is gainfully employed, he should forfeit all former Presidential benefits. This would eliminate double-dipping and was intended for all former Presidents.”
The bill also sought to prohibit Dikgosi from active political participation. The amendment was clear: Dikgosi should never enter politics, and if they did, they should not return to Bogosi.
According to the Former President’s Pensions and Retirement Benefits, Khama receives a monthly salary amounting to 80% of his presidential earnings. Additionally, he will draw a chieftainship salary. Paramount chiefs of the eight main tribes are on the E-scale, earning over BWP 406,332 per annum, plus daily sitting allowances during meetings.
Khama’s other benefits include a staff comprising security officers, a private secretary, and other office personnel, three vehicles, office equipment, and a fully furnished residence in Gaborone with domestic staff.
He is also entitled to first-class travel outside Botswana, up to four trips per annum, and access to government-owned transport for local trips on a case-by-case basis. Additional benefits encompass entertainment, telephone allowances for office and residence, as well as water and electricity allowances at both locations.
