The Presidents (Pension and Retirement Benefits Amendment Bill No 22 of 2016) was passed last Thursday night but oposition MPs have questioned the rationale behind the package.
The Bill seeks to allow former presidents to be provided with any mode of government transport for whatever reason as long as the incumbent President permits. Previously, former presidents were entitled to only different motor vehicles.The amendment also seeks to allow for former presidents to be employed without forfeiting their benefits.
Francistown South MP and opposition whip, Wynter Mmolotsi was the first to take to the floor and straight ahead slammed the Bill. “We have had President Sir Ketumile Masire and Festus Mogae take cars and that was enough. Why should we tailor law to cater for President Ian Khama’s lifestyle.
He should use the money he worked for all his life to live the life he wants,” he said. Mmolotsi argued that there was no need to amend the law to allow presidents to work as they are given pension and a package.
Leader of Opposition, Duma Boko expressed disappointment, stating that the MPs were being used to please one individual at the cost of the nation.
“The law states that the President can work, but they would forfeit some benefits. We therefore want to save the President from public ridicule and public scorn by rejecting this Bill. How will he stay in luxury knowing his people are suffering? How do you think they will react when you pile all these benefits on him? ” he asked.
However, BDP MPs defended the changes. Pelonomi Venson- Moitoi argued that it was vital that former presidents be provided with transport that will enable them to carry out Government assignments. “When leading my campaign, Mogae borrowed OK1 from the President for our campaign, but we could not get it because it was due for service.
The Bill will provide for the former presidents to be able to do work as we have been seeing them do work in other countries,” she said.
Moitoi said former presidents should be allowed to work if age allowed just like legislators who get jobs after leaving Parliament.Tonota legislator Thapelo Olopeng expressed disappointment at the rejection by opposition legislators labeling them petty. – Mmegi