Former Minister of Minerals and Mines, Lefoko Maxwell Moagi, appeared before the Magistrate’s Court this morning where he was formally arraigned on a single count of corruption, accused of orchestrating a scheme to receive over P4.7 million in exchange for granting mining licenses.
The state’s case, detailed in a charge sheet signed personally by the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Kgosietsile Ngakaagae, paints a picture of a complex financial transaction designed to benefit the former minister. Prosecutors allege that on or about April 17, 2024, Moagi, while serving as a public officer, accepted “valuable consideration” totalling P4,706,000.00.
According to the indictment, the funds did not come directly to him but were routed through a convoluted path. The money allegedly originated from New Energy Company (Pty) Ltd and was channelled through a third-party entity, Wisecreatives Investments (Pty) Ltd. In a striking revelation regarding the mechanics of the alleged crime, the state contends that the millions were credited to a Wisecreatives account held with Bank Gaborone. Moagi was then allegedly issued a bank card for that specific corporate account, which he used to access the funds directly.
The prosecution argues that this arrangement was a quid pro quo—a direct reward for Moagi issuing prospecting licenses for base metals to New Energy (Pty) Ltd. The licenses in question cover vast tracts of land across the Gantsi, Tsabong, and Tutume Districts, matters over which Moagi held authority in his official capacity.
During the tense court session, which was attended by DPP Director Ngakaagae, Moagi stood charged under Section 25 (1) of the Corruption and Economic Crime Act. When given the opportunity to answer to the charges, the former minister reserved his plea, meaning he has not yet formally indicated to the court whether he admits or denies guilt.
Following the reading of the charges, the Magistrate ruled to admit the accused to bail, though with strict stipulations attached to ensure his continued presence at trial. Moagi was ordered to pay a cash bail of P5,000 and to provide two sureties, preferably Botswana citizens, who were each required to bind themselves in the sum of P5,000. Further securing his attendance, the court directed that Moagi must strictly advise the Investigating Officer should he wish to travel outside the country and warned him to attend all future court engagements without fail.
With his temporary liberty secured, the case was adjourned. Moagi is scheduled to return to the dock on March 31, 2026, for a mention.
