DIS denies national polls meddling

Mmegi: The opposition Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC) has lately been worriedly repeating allegations that the DIS and the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) have been covertly helping the BDP to retain power with the 2019 General Election as a case in point. The UDC challenged the results of the last polls citing ‘rigging’ as the devil that ‘robbed’ them of victory. The opposition coalition parties under the UDC have even resorted to engaging their controversial Madibela Tlhopho to guard the ballot papers. Could you please enlighten us on the role you allegedly played as an institution in assisting the BDP to retain power?

Robert: The DIS is aware that some political actors have begun pursuing very aggressive strategies to deliberately misinform the public about the functions of the directorate during the 2024 election cycle. This notwithstanding, it is common knowledge that the directorate is bound by the Intelligence and Security Service Act to remain apolitical. The directorate will therefore, continue to abide by the requirements of its established mandate.