Former President Ian Khama’s legal adviser and prominent Gaborone attorney Parks Tafa is allegedly enjoying personal protection by the Directorate of Intelligence and Security (DIS). Tafa, a once powerful figure within the Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) top hierarchy, resurfaced at the party’s national congress in Tsabong in late 2022.
Speaking to Sunday Standard about the allegations they are providing Tafa with personal protection DIS Spokesperson Edward Robert said the DIS Act empowers the agency to provide security for “…any other individual as may be deemed necessary by the President.” He said it was not just past presidents, vice presidents and their immediate families who can enjoy personal protection by the DIS.
Tafa would neither deny nor confirm the allegations. “I really have no idea what you are talking about. I tend to mind my own business and I would prefer you do the same… I have no obligation to create work for you and that’s why I mind own.”
While reasons behind the alleged security provision remain unclear, it may not be farfetched to assume the decision was motivated by his controversial speech at the Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) congress at which it became apparent the former ruling party lawyer had broken ranks with former President Khama.
