Selebi Phikwe West Member of Parliament has moved swiftly to comply with Botswana’s asset disclosure laws as hr submitted his declaration of assets and liabilities to the Ethics and Integrity Directorate (EID) early in the new year, a move likely to be viewed as setting the pace for public office bearers.
Documents seen by this publication show that MP Reuben Kaizer lodged his declaration in terms of the Declaration of Assets and Liabilities Act, with the Ethics and Integrity Directorate formally acknowledging receipt on 7 January 2026.
According to the acknowledgement letter issued by the Directorate, the declaration was submitted in line with statutory requirements, and the EID will now proceed to analyse and verify the information provided, as mandated by law. The Directorate noted that it may request amendments, clarifications or additional information should the need arise during the verification process.
The accompanying declaration acknowledgement slip indicates that the assets and liabilities were initially declared on 13 August 2025 and formally received through hand delivery in early January 2026.
In its correspondence, the Ethics and Integrity Directorate reminded the MP that, under Section 9(1) of the Act, declarations must be made every 24 months following the first declaration. The Directorate further underscored that public office holders are legally required to continue declaring their assets and liabilities for a period of five years after leaving office
In its correspondence, the Ethics and Integrity Directorate reminded the MP that, under Section 9(1) of the Act, declarations must be made every 24 months following the first declaration. The Directorate further underscored that public office holders are legally required to continue declaring their assets and liabilities for a period of five years after leaving office.
Asset declaration is a cornerstone of Botswana’s anti-corruption and good governance framework, aimed at promoting transparency, accountability and public trust in leadership. The law applies to Members of Parliament, ministers, senior public officers and other designated officials.
Governance observers have often criticised delays and reluctance by some public officials to comply with disclosure requirements, arguing that timely declarations are essential in combating corruption and conflicts of interest.
It is understood that Kaizer’s early compliance is therefore likely to be interpreted as a signal of commitment to transparency, particularly at a time when public scrutiny of elected leaders remains high.
The Ethics and Integrity Directorate has consistently urged all declarants to meet their legal obligations, warning that failure to comply with the Act may attract penalties as provided for under the law.
