Stephen Tiroyakgosi is assessing whether the African Hero schools and clinics arrangement warrants an investigation, as questions over approval processes and government obligations grow.
GAZETTE REPORTER
Ombudsman Stephen Tiroyakgosi is monitoring the controversy surrounding the African Hero schools and clinics initiative and will consider whether to launch an investigation on his own initiative.
Speaking to The Botswana Gazette, Tiroyakgosi said he had not yet determined whether the circumstances warranted intervention by his office.
“I am following the matter with keen interest. I am also taking note of the public interest and discussions around it,” he said.
He said he had deliberately not rushed to form an opinion on using the Ombudsman’s own-motion investigative powers because details of the project were still emerging.
Awaiting Clarity
Tiroyakgosi said allowing the controversy to settle would give his office a clearer picture of the issues before it decided whether there were grounds to intervene.
“The matter is still unfolding and I have not yet advised myself on whether there is a basis for an investigation,” he said.
Under Botswana’s Ombudsman framework, the office may, in certain circumstances, initiate investigations without waiting for a formal complaint.
The African Hero arrangement has prompted calls for transparency, with President Duma Boko facing pressure to explain its nature and the circumstances surrounding it.
Questions concern how the initiative was approved, the arrangement between African Hero and the government, and the extent of the government’s obligations.
Jurisdiction Question
The Ombudsman’s remit includes investigating maladministration, such as unreasonable delays, unfair treatment, abuse of authority, failure to follow proper procedures and arbitrary decisions. It also covers officials failing to act when they have a duty to do so.
The office can request information from public bodies, investigate complaints and recommend corrective action.
Tiroyakgosi said he would also have to consider jurisdiction, including “whether the issues involved are matters that the Ombudsman can investigate”.