Let the new DCEC boss work!

Mmegi Editor | Monday September 11, 2023 06:00

It’s a momentous occasion made even more significant by the fact that she is a woman who has ascended through the ranks of the organisation, demonstrating an understanding of its requirements.

However, her appointment alone cannot guarantee the fulfillment of the DCEC’s mandate.

When Tymon Katlholo assumed leadership of this graft-busting agency in 2020, he passionately proclaimed his commitment to independence, stating, “No one is going to tell me who to investigate, how to investigate and when to investigate.”

Yet, last year, he found himself on indefinite suspension due to a fallout with his superior. This dispute reportedly arose from Katlholo’s contentious interactions with Directorate of Intelligence and Security’s (DIS) Director-General, Peter Magosi, over administrative matters within his purview.

We are optimistic that Makgekgenene, having navigated the DCEC’s internal hierarchy, recognises the paramount importance of ensuring that investigators perform their duties meticulously and without bias. The repeated calls for the DCEC’s independence from presidential influence are well-founded. While we await such autonomy, President Mokgweetsi Masisi must ensure that the DCEC and related authorities, particularly the DIS, refrain from excessive interference in each other’s affairs.

On the other hand, we call upon the new DCEC DG, to emulate the admirable examples set by Rose Seretse and Katlholo, individuals who resisted intimidation from the formidable DIS and other authorities.

With upcoming elections, it is imperative that your officers do not target members of opposition parties. As members of the media, we eagerly anticipate your outreach, hoping to foster enduring partnerships. Remember, the fight against corruption is a collective endeavour, hence we anticipate your active engagement with civil society in this fight.

During your initial tenure at the DCEC, concerns regarding job security were a recurring issue. We trust that you will be steadfast in your position and faithfully execute your mandate.

Mr. President, we implore you to offer unwavering support to Mma Makgekgenene and her team, permitting them to carry out their duties without hindrance. Moreover, it is crucial to allocate ample resources to the DCEC to bolster its capacity for securing convictions, a task that requires immediate attention.

Makgekgenene’s appointment as DG of the DCEC is a commendable milestone, but it must be accompanied by concrete actions to safeguard the agency’s independence and enhance its effectiveness. We look forward to witnessing her leadership and the positive impact she can make in the relentless fight against corruption.