Benefits Former President Mokgweetsi Masisi Will Receive
As President Mokgweetsi Masisi settles into life after office, he enjoys a series of benefits meant to honor his years of leadership. These perks are part of Botswana’s provisions for former presidents, ensuring comfort and security post-presidency. However, if the proposed President’s (Pensions and Retirement Benefits) Amendment Bill of 2024 had passed, his entitlements would have been even more extensive. Here’s an overview of his current benefits and what additional perks he might have received.
Current Benefits for Ex-President Masisi
1. Generous Pension
Upon retirement, Masisi is entitled to a pension equal to his basic salary or 80 percent of the incumbent president’s salary, whichever is higher. Based on his final annual salary of P1,325,108.70 (P110,425.72 per month), this ensures he has a substantial income to maintain a comfortable lifestyle.
2. Luxury Vehicles
The current entitlement includes three state-funded cars, complete with full maintenance, fuel, and replacement services. This benefit allows Masisi to enjoy reliable, cost-free transportation.
3. High-Level Security
Masisi continues to receive comprehensive security services. The number of security officers assigned is determined by the appropriate authorities, ensuring his safety and that of his family.
4. Personal Staff and Office Support
The retired president benefits from a dedicated team, including a private secretary, a general secretary, and an office attendant. These staff members assist him with post-presidential duties and engagements.
5. Luxurious Housing Provisions
He resides in a fully furnished house in Gaborone, complete with domestic staff, including two maids and a gardener. This ensures a high standard of living in a secure and comfortable environment.
6. Travel Perks
The ex-president has access to international travel benefits, which cover his first-class flight expenses for official and personal travel. This provision allows him to stay active and connected on the global stage.
Additional Perks Masisi Would Have Been Entitled to Under the Proposed Bill
Had the President’s (Pensions and Retirement Benefits) Amendment Bill of 2024 passed, Masisi and his family would have enjoyed even more generous benefits, including:
1. Extended Family Benefits
• Monthly Tax-Free Salary for Family: The amendment proposed that Masisi’s spouse, children, and dependents would receive a monthly, tax-free salary of approximately P55,000 after his passing.
• Benefits for Dependent Children: All of Masisi’s children—biological, adopted, or born out of wedlock—would be entitled to 50 percent of his basic salary, tax-free, until they reached the age of 18. This provision would have ensured that his dependents enjoyed financial security long after his passing.
2. Doubling the Vehicle Entitlement
• The proposed bill suggested doubling the number of cars from three to six, increasing the luxury and convenience of his state-funded transportation.
3. Enhanced Security Arrangements
• While the exact number of security officers would still be determined by authorities, the bill aimed to bolster Masisi’s security detail, ensuring an even greater level of protection.
4. Increased Staff Support for the Vice President
• The Vice President’s retirement benefits would have also expanded under the amendment, including a total of 10 staff members for support, among other perks like business-class international travel.
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Public Reactions and Concerns
The proposed bill raised significant concerns among citizens and fiscal watchdogs, with critics arguing that extending such lavish benefits to former presidents’ families would place an unnecessary financial burden on the country. While supporters of the bill believed it was crucial to respect and honor the former leader’s legacy, many questioned the government’s commitment to fiscal discipline.
Despite not having received the additional perks proposed by the amendment, President Mokgweetsi Masisi’s retirement package remains one of luxury and privilege. The debate over these benefits continues to highlight the challenge of balancing respect for national leaders with the country’s broader economic needs.
