The Botswana Federation of Public Sector Unions (BOFEPUSU) has raised concerns over what it describes as a growing threat of state capture in the implementation of major infrastructure projects. The federation calls for transparency, parliamentary oversight and public accountability in government-led developments.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, BOFEPUSU said recent debates surrounding infrastructure development in Botswana had exposed “serious contradictions” in how major projects are conceived, financed, approved and implemented. The federation argued that these concerns extend beyond administrative matters and have significant implications for public finances, economic governance and democratic accountability.
The federation specifically cited the Duma Boko School project in Block 7, Gaborone, saying the public had been presented with conflicting information regarding the total cost of the project, financing arrangements and procurement processes. While acknowledging the importance of the school, BOFEPUSU said the absence of detailed procurement information undermined public accountability.
BOFEPUSU further warned against what it described as the gradual replacement of established procurement processes with arrangements involving individuals connected to political leaders. It argued that infrastructure projects should be supported by feasibility studies, cost-benefit analyses, environmental assessments and public consultations before being announced.
The federation expressed concern about what it termed “state capture” and alleged that public institutions risk being supplanted by personal influence and private interests. It warned that such developments could weaken democratic safeguards and erode public trust.
The federation also addressed foreign direct investment and public-private partnerships, saying international investors remain welcome in Botswana but should be subject to due diligence, beneficial ownership disclosure requirements and conflict-of-interest safeguards. It cautioned against allowing private interests to exert undue influence over public policy or gain preferential access to state resources.
BOFEPUSU said governance should be conducted through institutions rather than personal relationships, arguing that infrastructure agreements involving financial obligations should be subjected to parliamentary scrutiny.
The federation expressed concern about what it termed “state capture” and alleged that public institutions risk being supplanted by personal influence and private interests. It warned that such developments could weaken democratic safeguards and erode public trust.
BOFEPUSU called on Parliament, the media, civil society organisations, trade unions and the public to intensify scrutiny of infrastructure agreements and public-private partnerships, saying Botswana’s reputation for good governance must be protected.
