Boot out SSA boss Fraser

THE rogue State Security Agency (SSA) boss Arthur Fraser must be fired. He has retained his post despite mounting allegations against him that make it clear he cannot be left in charge of the spy agency. The revelation that he attempted to shut down the investigations of these allegations by the Inspector General of Intelligence (IGI) makes his removal all the more urgent.

According to court documents filed by the IGI, Dr Setlhomamaru Dintwe, Fraser has interfered heavily in the IGI’s work, including revoking Dintwe’s security clearance.

The IGI is appointed by parliament to oversee the conduct of the intelligence agencies and act as a safeguard against exactly such abuses of power.

In light of the growing evidence of widespread abuses inside intelligence structures, including corruption, illegal surveillance and continued politicisation, this office needs to be protected from harassment and intimidation. Urgent reforms are needed to strengthen its independence, bolster its powers and make it more transparent and accountable to the public. We call for:

● President Cyril Ramaphosa to fire the securocrats in the intelligence agencies, starting with Fraser;

● These agencies to be staffed with individuals who are independent, credible and untainted by past abuses of power;

● Police to investigate the allegations against Fraser as a criminal matter;

● Parliament to kick-start a long-overdue reform process for the intelligence structures, including implementing the Matthews Commission’s findings;

● Parliament to ensure the IGI is given the necessary independence and resources to root out rot in SA intelligence agencies, from top to bottom. — Right2Know Campaign, via e-mail