Magosi Promises 'Clean' DIS
Innocent Selatlhwa | Monday May 28, 2018 13:37
The Directorate of Intelligence and Security (DIS) new boss, Peter Magosi on Friday promised that he would work closely with the media. Cherry on top, he said the DIS would next week employ a public relations officer.
Under former director general, Isaac Kgosi, the closest the media ever got to knowing about the directorate was a media tour in 2015. The tour purported to take the media to all DIS facilities in Kopong and Phakalane to prove that there was transparency in their actions.
During Kgosi’s tenure, the DIS was always in the news with controversies alleging abuse of power within the organisation. Kgosi would never go in detail when responding to media enquiries about the operations of the organisation and stated that they would not respond to media enquiries, as their operations are secretive. Magosi said he takes responsibility for the bad image associated with the DIS promising a new slate. One of his agents who identified himself as Tsholofelo presented the mandate of the DIS and their intentions to be media-friendly.
Tsholofelo said even though the media and the DIS play almost a similar role, they cannot trust each other fully, but can work with each other. “This is a new beginning, new leadership brings a new culture. We will engage all stakeholders to redeem the image of the directorate. We have a responsibility to serve the nation diligently. We acknowledge you’re crucial and would like to start this new journey with you,” he said.
Magosi also promised that even though politicians appoint him, he will always protect the integrity of the organisation and do what is right. Quizzed on tapping of cellphones, Magosi said the DIS has the right to tap a phone after obtaining a court order to do so.
He also dismissed claims by Francistown West legislator, Ignatius Moswaane that the DIS was being used to plot his political downfall and death. “There is no truth in what the legislator is alleging, I have done my investigations and I can promise you that we are a reputable organisation,” he said.
Magosi, who was appointed recently after Masisi removed Kgosi currently haunted by corruption cases, said he was a busy man going around regions addressing officers.