‘Venson-Moitoi is paranoid’

 

Directorate of Intelligence and Security Services (DISS) Director General Brigadier Magosi says he is disappointed by former Minister Dr. Pelonomi Venson-Moitoi’s claims that security agents are following her around the country. Dr Venson-Moitoi whom next week will challenge President Dr Mokgweetsi Masisi for Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) presidency recently revealed that DIS agents have been following her around the country as she canvasses for votes.

He revealed that she has since expressed her concern to Magosi about the agents who are always following her. In an interview with this publication Magosi expressed his disappointment at the utterances made by the former cabinet member. He stated that politicians have the tendency of being paranoid and thinking that they are being tailed around by DIS agents.“She is one of the first people I engaged when the standoff between the president and his predecessor started.

“I requested that since she is the eldest between Dr Masisi and former President Dr Ian Khama and a senior BDP member she has to intervene. “I asked her to request the former to acknowledge that Dr Masisi is the current head of state and deserves the respect any president must be given.

“I went to her because I treat her like my mother,” said Magosi indicating that he was later shocked to see Dr Venson-Moitoi attacking his organisation in the media. According to Magosi, he has no reason to be following Dr Venson-Moitoi around. He said if he has any issue with her, he would go straight to her and state his case. Magosi explained that what is being said about his agents is not true, positing that DIS is not the only law enforcement agency that uses unmarked motor vehicles.

Magosi wondered why politicians would be the only ones among citizens complaining that the DIS is targeting them. He said his aim is to ensure that he runs a clean and respected agency. “I will never have the DIS accused of things that are not true. This is why I am going around the country to address councils to allay fears that the DIS is targeting politicians or members of the public.

“Under my leadership the DIS will not be accused of violating human rights in this country. Anything that could happen of such nature I will take stern action against perpetrators because I will never sanction such action. “I will even take action before such acts are committed under my leadership,” he stated.