Kapinga Warns DIS Over “Blanket Classification” of Info

A member of Parliament’s Intelligence and Security Oversight Committee Kenny Kapinga has warned the DIS that national security and classified information are not blank cheques, saying there are clear limits to what can be shielded from scrutiny Former deputy police commissioner and newly elected member of Parliament’s Intelligence and Security Oversight Committee, Kenny Kapinga, has criticised the Directorate of Intelligence and Security (DIS) for what he describes as the excessive use of national security and classification arguments to avoid accountability. Kapinga, speaking to this publication following DIS Director General Peter Magosi’s controversial appearance before the Public Accounts Committee (PAC), said he watched the proceedings with disappointment, though he was not surprised by what he described as the agency’s now familiar approach. Magosi repeatedly invoked classified information and national security considerations when responding to questions from legislators, a move that triggered public criticism and renewed debate over the extent of secrecy surrounding the agency.

Kapinga said the DIS must understand that while national security considerations are legitimate, they have boundaries that cannot be stretched to shield institutions from scrutiny. “I watched the proceedings with disappointment, although I cannot say I was surprised. This has become a familiar pattern with the DIS whenever it is faced with legitimate questions of accountability,” he said.

He argued that there is a growing misunderstanding around what qualifies as classified information and matters of national security, warning that these concepts should not be used as a blanket defence. “There is a misconception on what constitutes national security and classified information. There are limits to these concepts, and the time has come for those providing oversight, like legislators, and those accounting to know of these parameters,” Kapinga said.

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Kapinga said strengthening parliamentary oversight of the DIS would be among the priorities of the newly elected Intelligence and Security Committee. He said Parliament must be able to effectively scrutinise the intelligence agency while working with relevant stakeholders to ensure reforms that improve accountability and public confidence.

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