The government has allocated P1.5 billion to compensate 9,360 retired Botswana Defence Force (BDF) members, including the families of deceased members.
President Dr. Mokgweetsi Masisi made this announcement during a meeting with retired BDF members at Kokoro Farm in Paje yesterday. He acknowledged the injustices faced by the retired members and their families and offered a sincere apology on behalf of the government and the people of Botswana.
I am the first to accept it. On behalf of the government and people of Botswana, I want to tender a sincere apology, he said.
President Masisi, who also serves as the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, emphasized that while he recognized the challenges experienced by the retired members, it might not be possible to address all issues immediately due to financial constraints.
He explained that the funds, transferred to the Botswana Public Officers Pension Fund (BPOPF), were made available through the governments effective economic management. He urged the retired members to maintain discipline and avoid internal conflicts, stressing the importance of unity and solidarity.
"You are soldiers, whether retired or not. You live under a structure of command, and discipline is the foundation of your profession," President Masisi said.
He noted that lack of discipline could lead to court-martial or demotion but expressed a desire to correct each other's mistakes and build the nation.
President Masisi also highlighted the governments efforts to improve the welfare of retired BDF members, including revising the BDF Act to incorporate a veterans affairs unit.
Minister of Finance Ms. Peggy Serame explained that an error in pension calculations necessitated the correction, resulting in the P1.5 billion compensation fund. Ms. Serame, also a member of the Defence Council, confirmed the transfer of funds to BPOPF and assured that efforts were underway to disburse the funds to the rightful beneficiaries, including the families of deceased members.
As a gesture of appreciation, President Masisi donated two Brahman bulls to retired BDF members Rt. Corporal Atanang Mojuta and Rt. Warrant Officer Class 1 Oikanne Boepetswe during the event after a draw involving all attendees.
This initiative marks a positive step towards rectifying past injustices and supporting the well-being of retired BDF members and their families.
