Peter Magosi should step down

Mmegi Editor | Monday June 10, 2024 06:00

In just over two weeks, we saw suspended agents win a case to stop the DIS harassment; Bruno Paledi and Keabetswe Makgope had charges against them for aiding and abetting unlawful possession of weapons dropped. Adding to this, the founding DIS boss, Isaac Kgosi, won back his confiscated guns. The DIS also faced embarrassment when the indefinite suspension of Deputy DIS DG, Tefo Kgotlhane, was ruled unlawful by the court.

Reports have surfaced that the DIS conducted surveillance on private citizens without proper authorisation. This blatant violation of privacy rights is unacceptable and undermines the very principles on which our democracy is built.

Furthermore, the DIS has been accused of arbitrarily detaining individuals without due process. These actions not only violate our Constitution but also erode the trust citizens place in our security agencies. The DIS operates with a veil of secrecy, making it difficult for citizens to hold them accountable. Transparency is essential for maintaining public confidence, yet the DIS seems to operate in a black box, shielded from scrutiny.

Recent operations carried out by the DIS have raised eyebrows. From questionable raids to heavy-handed tactics, it is clear that the DIS needs a thorough review of its procedures and practices. As citizens, we deserve better. We deserve an intelligence agency that operates within the bounds of the law, respects our rights, and remains accountable to the public.

Unfortunately, under the leadership of Director General (DG) Peter Magosi, the DIS has fallen short of these expectations. His tenure has been marked by legal blunders, opacity, and disregard for the rule of law. Given the above litany of transgressions, it is time for Magosi to step down from his position.

We need fresh leadership that prioritises transparency, accountability, and respect for citizens’ rights. The DIS should not be a law unto itself. It exists to serve the people of Botswana, and it must do so with integrity and strict adherence to legal norms. We therefore call on Magosi to recognise the gravity of the situation and step down for the sake of our democracy, the rule of law and the trust of the people.

‘Power is of two kinds. One is obtained by the fear of punishment and the other by acts of love. Power based on love is a thousand times more effective and permanent than the one derived from fear of punishment.’

– Mahatma Gandhi