2 News Lesotho Times April 2 - 8 2020 ABC, DC agree to form new coalition

’Marafaele Mohloboli

HE All Basotho Convention (ABC)’s na- tional executive committee and the Dem- Tocratic Congress (DC) are on the verge of concluding a new coalition deal. Authoritative sources say under the new proposed coalition, Finance Minister Moeketsi Majoro will become Prime Minister with DC leader Mathibeli Mokhothu as his deputy. At least 35 members of parliament (MPs) from the ABC’s total tally of 52 have already signed a pledge supporting the new proposed coalition, authoritative sources said. The 35 to- gether with the 26 from the DC guarantee the 61-majority required to form government. It is likely other ABC MPs will come on board, giving the proposed coalition an un- assailable advantage. The Basotho National Party (BNP), the Front for Popular Democracy (FPD), and other smaller parties will be roped in to stabilise the proposed coalition. News of the ABC/DC deal comes in the wake of intricate political horse-trading which has seen Prime Minister Thomas Thabane fall out with one of his main allies, the BNP, and try to form a new coalition with Mothetjoa Metsing’s Lesotho Congress for Democracy (LCD) and Se- libe Mochoboroane’s Movement for Economic MOEKETSI Majoro. MATHIBELI Mokhothu. Change (MEC). The planned ABC/DC coalition will effective- ly jeopardise the premier’s plans. “Ntate Moleleki and his AD party will not be partnership remains between the two (ABC rapprochements between the two factions ear- Even though he is ABC leader, Dr Thabane part of the new coalition along with the LCD and DC) but either party is free to bring its lier this year and after Dr Thabane announced has no control over his party’s NEC which and MEC who have been in parallel talks with friends on board. Either party which brings on he would step down in July or earlier if his is largely loyal to a faction led by his deputy Ntate Thabane to establish a coalition. Their board its friends will be expected to allocate successor is chosen. But the premier has since Nqosa Mahao. The NEC last week took its own coalition will not succeed because it lacks the them some government portfolios from their made remarks that suggest he will not relin- leader to court over his decision to prorogue numbers. Most ABC legislators are in favour of share,” Mr Letsosa said. quish power. parliament. the proposed deal with the DC.” ABC cabinet minister Tefo Mapesela con- His war of attrition with his NEC resumed The NEC had originally thrown its weight Another source said the ABC/DC pact was firmed in an audio recording leaked recently last week after he was taken to court over the behind party chairman Samuel Rapapa to now a done deal. that the ABC was on the verge of agreeing to prorogation. The ABC NEC sees the proroga- succeed Dr Thabane as prime minister. It is “We have the num- a new coalition deal tion as an attempt by the PM to buy time to nevertheless comfortable with Dr Majoro and bers because 35 ABC with the DC. forge a new coalition to ensure his survival in recently endorsed his election by the party’s legislators have signed He said the AD power. MPs to take over as premier from Dr Thabane. commitment forms would be left out in The NEC has since rubbished his new coa- DC deputy leader Motlalentoa Letsosa con- stating their support the cold because its lition plans with the LCD and MEC, saying the firmed his party was in talks with the ABC to and commitment to leader, Mr Moleleki, premier cannot singularly commit the party to forge a new coalition. Although the main play- the new coalition…,” We are having talks was “untrustworthy”. any such deal. It remains to be seen if the pre- ers were the ABC and the DC, he said the BNP said the source, adding BNP spokesperson mier will still persist with that dalliance. and other smaller parties would be engaged to that “rabid Thabane (with the ABC NEC) ‘Masetota Leshota LCD spokesperson Apesi Ratšele said his ensure broad support for the proposed coali- loyalists” like current said they were yet party was aware of the ABC-DC coalition talks tion. cabinet ministers to be formally ap- and suggested it was looking elsewhere for its ABC officials were a bit coy when ap- Samonyane Ntsekele which are now at an proached about join- own coalition initiatives. proached for comment, with party secretary and Chalane Phori will ing the proposed co- “I am not going to deny that there are ABC- general Lebohang Hlaele preferring to only be booted out of gov- advanced stage. Were alition. Last week the DC talks… Now that our own ally (the DC) has say “in Lesotho, nothing is impossible…” ernment. BNP joined the ABC’s turned against us, it means we also have to But authoritative sources said the ABC/ ABC spokesperson it not for this national NEC in a Constitution- find somewhere to turn to. DC pact was now almost a done deal. Deputy Montoeli Masoetsa al Court application “We have heard that they are also planning Prime Minister (DPM) Monyane Moleleki’s Al- said it was premature to have Dr Thabane to have BNP on board despite their different liance for Democrats (AD), the second biggest to talk about the pro- lockdown things would declared unfit to con- ideologies which do not mix like water and oil. member of the current governing coalition, posed coalition. “ tinue in office. We know that the BNP hates us and they could will be excluded from the deal altogether with Mr Hlaele, the sec- have been finalised. An This after Dr Tha- never work with us. So, we have made peace Mr Metsing’s LCD and Mr Mochoboroane’s retary-general, said; bane unilaterally pro- with it all and accepted things for what they MEC. “There is no smoke announcement of the rogued parliament are,” Mr Ratšele said. The DC and AD don’t see eye to eye because without fire. We will from 20 March to June “The DC and LCD were in the coalition that the former accuse the DPM of betrayal after he have to wait and see 2020 without King lost the June 3 2017 elections. quit that party to join forces with Dr Thabane what happens as days new coalition would Letsie III’s approv- MEC spokesperson Napo Moshoeshoe said causing its fall from power in June 2017. go by.” al. The BNP and ABC his party was not in the clear regarding latest The DC has repeatedly said it was ready to DC deputy leader have probably been want the prorogation developments since the lockdown was an- work with the ABC in a new coalition as long Motlalentoa Letsosa declared unconstitu- nounced. as it excluded Dr Thabane, who is in court over was more direct and made by now…,” tional. The case will “We shall accept whatever comes our way in allegations of murdering his ex-wife Lipolelo. forthcoming. be heard tomorrow. the name of saving our nation,” he said, add- “The ABC-DC talks have reached an ad- “We are having talks (See story on page 4). ing his party would be willing to join any coa- vanced stage and a deal is imminent,” said one (with the ABC NEC) The ABC has been lition in which it was recognised for its worth top source. which are now at an in turmoil since Dr and not treated as a charity case. “An agreement could have been signed by advanced stage. Were it not for this national Thabane and his supporters rejected Profes- AD spokesperson Thuso Litjobo said they now had it not been for the national lockdown. lockdown, things would have been finalised. sor Nqosa Mahao’s election as the party’s dep- had only heard rumours of the proposed co- “Ntate Majoro will come in as prime minis- An announcement of the new coalition would uty leader at its February 2019 elective confer- alition. The AD was willing to be part of any ter with Ntate Mokhothu as his deputy. At least have probably been made by now…,” he said. ence. coalition “meant to bring peace and stability in 35 of the ABC’s 52 legislators have endorsed He said they were also talking to the BNP The anti-Thabane ABC faction had teamed the country”. the deal. Them and the DC’s 26 are enough to though the main partnership would be be- up with the DC to file a no confidence motion Both the AD and MEC are nevertheless ex- form government though other smaller par- tween the ABC and DC. against Dr Thabane last June. The motion ap- cluded from the envisaged ABC/DC coalition ties will be brought in to guarantee stability. “Whatever agreement we reach, the main peared to have been rendered moot by public matrix.

LESOTHO ELECTRICITY AND WATER AUTHORITY The Lesotho Electricity and Water Authority (LEWA) is the organisation established in terms of the Lesotho Electricity Authority Act No.12 of 2002, as amended, to regulate electricity sector and urban water and sewerage services sub-sector.

Functions of the Authority: * Monitor provision of the Quality of Service and Supply Standards (QoSSS) in the Electricity Supply Industry (ESI), Urban Water and Sewerage Services (UWSS) industry * Issue licenses in the regulated business of generation, transmission, distribution and supply of electricity and water and sewerage services * Resolve customer complaints failed to have been resolved by the regulated utilities (LEC & WASCO) * Determine Electricity, Urban Water and Sewerage services tariffs Lesotho Electricity and Water Authority, Private Bag A315 7th Floor Moposo House, Maseru or call (+266) 22312479. Email: [email protected] Website: www.lewa.org.ls April 2 - 8 2020 Lesotho Times Advertisement 3 4 News Lesotho Times April 2 - 8 2020

Pascalinah Kabi

MALL Business Development, Coopera- tives and Marketing minister Chalane SPhori has accused the Basotho National Phori blasts BNP, RCL Party (BNP) and the Reformed Congress of Le- sotho (RCL) of being a stumbling block to the effectiveness of the governing coalition by ac- tively working against Prime Minister Thomas accuses junior coalition partners of rendering govt dysfunctional Thabane. Mr Phori said due to resistance by the two junior coalition partners, His Majesty King Let- “only AD has confidence in Thabane”, minister claims sie III declined to act on Dr Thabane’s advice to appoint Acting Chief Justice ‘Maseforo Mahase and Senior Assistant Commissioner of Police “Ntate Thabane has given people a lot of lee- Janki Hlaahla as chief justice and police com- way. His government is challenged by every- missioner respectively. one yet no one has ever been thrown into the The BNP and RCL are the smallest parties in dams,” Mr Phori said. This was in reference the four-party coalition which also features Dr to the three Maseru men who were allegedly Thabane’s All Basotho Convention (ABC) and murdered by soldiers and their bodies thrown Deputy Prime Minister Monyane Moleleki’s Al- into the Mohale Dam during the Mosisili era in liance of Democrats (AD). early 2017. Of late, fault lines have emerged in the gov- Ten soldiers have since been charged with erning coalition with the BNP joining the na- the soldiers’ murder. tional executive committee (NEC) of Dr Tha- Mr Phori said so many atrocities took place bane’s own party to file a Constitutional Court during the Mosisili era but things were differ- application to have Dr Thabane declared unfit ent under the current Thabane administration to continue in office and another prime min- which allowed democracy to flourish at the ister appointed in his place. This after Dr Tha- premier’s expense. bane unilaterally prorogued parliament from CHALANE Phori. “Ntate Thabane has allowed people to prac- 20 March to June 2020. The BNP and ABC ar- tice democracy. He has not gone ahead and gue that the prorogation is unconstitutional in signed for the appointments of people to cru- that it was not approved by the King. They also cial positions because parties with six seats do argue that they and parliament were not con- not support him. This is costing him,” Mr Phori sulted before hand. Although the RCL is not an said. The BNP has five seats, the RCL only has applicant in the matter, BNP leader Thesele one and the AD has 11. Dr Thabane’s ABC has ‘Maseribane claimed in his court papers that 52 seats but 35 legislators are said to be back- the lawsuit had the full support of RCL leader, ing moves to form a new coalition with the DC, Keketso Rantšo. The case will be heard tomor- BNP, RCL and other smaller parties to replace row. the current government. (See lead story on The BNP and RCL are also said to be in talks page 2). with the Professor Nqosa Mahao-led faction of from investigating and prosecuting him for the bane wants to exercise his constitutional right Meanwhile, RCL Secretary General the ABC and the opposition Democratic Con- June 2017 murder of Dr Thabane’s estranged to appoint anyone. That has happened with Retšelisitsoe Lesana said Mr Phori was wrong gress (DC) over a new coalition to replace the wife, Lipolelo. Dr Thabane has been charged (the appointments of) the commissioner of in accusing the RCL over anything said and Thabane-led government. with the murder but the case has been put on police and chief justice. The AD did not have done by Ms Keketso Rantšo as the latter had This week, Mr Phori, a self-confessed Tha- hold pending the outcome of Dr Thabane’s ap- a problem with those appointments because it been replaced as RCL leader by ‘Machabana bane loyalist, accused the BNP and RCL of ac- plication to bar the state from charging him as knows who has the power to appoint people. Lemphane-Letsie. (See story on page 8 on RCL tively frustrating Dr Thabane. long as he remains in office. This is why they (BNP and RCL) attack both power struggles). The outspoken minister said Dr Thabane In an interview with the Lesotho Times this Thabane and Moleleki. “He (Mr Phori) is mixing up issues. ‘M’e Keke could have appointed Justice Mahase and Sen- week, Mr Phori accused the BNP and RCL of “We were told that the King did not sign be- (Rantšo) is the one who is disregarding the ior Assistant Commissioner Hlaahla had it not seeking Dr Thabane’s ouster. cause Basotho National Party and Reformed decisions of the prime minister not the RCL. been for the resistance of the BNP and RCL. He said only Dr Moleleki and his AD party Congress of Lesotho did not consent to those RCL has its own leader ‘M’e ‘Machabana Lem- Dr Thabane wants Justice Mahase to fill the still had confidence in Dr Thabane. appointments (of Justice Mahase and Hlaahla). phane-Letsie. post left vacant by Justice Nthomeng Majara “The AD has seen this conspiracy (against Dr We were told that the BNP and RCL disagreed. "It is therefore not true that the RCL is going who resigned last year after a protracted bat- Thabane),” Mr Phori said. “The truth of the matter is that they want against the prime minister. It is however true tle with the premier who initially sought to im- “The AD has always been clear that it has Moleleki out because he supports the prime that ‘M’e Keke, who is clearly in denial (that peach her over alleged gross misconduct. confidence in Thabane. You have never heard minister. Moleleki is very clear when it comes she is no longer RCL leader), is the one who Dr Thabane also wanted Senior Assistant the AD speaking ill of Thabane. You can tell to the constitution,” Mr Phori said, adding challenges the decisions of the prime minis- Commissioner Hlaahla to replace Commis- that the AD is the stumbling block for those everyone should understand that the premier ter,” Mr Lesana said. sioner Holomo Molibeli who he unsuccessfully who want Thabane out.” was empowered by the constitution to make Efforts to obtain comment from Ms Rantšo attempted to fire for alleged incompetence. He said had it not been for the resistance key appointments. were unsuccessful as her mobile phone rang Commissioner Molibeli successfully chal- from the BNP and RCL, the King could have Mr Phori also defended Dr Thabane’s gov- unanswered. lenged Dr Thabane’s bid to oust him in court. gone ahead and appointed Justice Mahase and ernance record saying the latter had not en- On her part, BNP spokesperson ‘Masetota He denied allegations of incompetence, saying Senior Assistant Commissioner Hlaahla. gaged in any of the human rights violations Leshota denied that the BNP had opposed the these were only a smokescreen and the real “There has always been resistance from witnessed during the previous Pakalitha Mo- planned appointments by Dr Thabane. motives behind the bid to topple him had to do some coalition partners every time Ntate Tha- sisili regime’s tenure. with the premier’s desperate quest to stop him

’Marafaele Mohloboli cies should understand that they are Majoro ready to take over subject to lawful civilian authority.” INANCE Minister Moeketsi He also identified endemic cor- Majoro who unanimously cho- ruption as a major impediment Fsen by All Basotho Convention rally behind Dr Majoro is anything event of our leader and Prime Min- plementation of the multi-sector which had to be tackled to ensure (ABC) legislators to succeed Prime to go by, then this means the power ister Thomas Thabane leaving office, reforms to restore good governance, economic development. He said the Minister Thomas Thabane says he is struggles in the ABC and the acrimo- I would succeed him in the office of ensure justice, political stability, re- country needed to develop strategies ready to take over when the veteran nious battles to succeed Dr Thabane the prime minister. establish and sustain the rule of law. to stimulate local production and im- leader eventually retires. might just have come to an end. Over “That is provided that other mem- Once these have been achieved, we port substitution. The soft-spoken minister said the weekend, the minister told this bers of the current coalition (Baso- can ensure economic stability. All “Most of our youths can be ab- upon assuming power he would publication that he accepted his elec- tho National Party, Alliance of Demo- these need a concerted effort of all sorbed into formal employment if work to ensure the full implemen- tion by the ABC legislators to succeed crats and Reformed Congress of Le- involved. There is no justice if it is we focus on local production. The ag- tation of the multi-sector reforms Dr Thabane when the veteran leader sotho) give their full support to my delayed. Justice brings peace and so ricultural sector needs to move from to lay the foundations for lasting eventually chose to call it a day. candidature. It is therefore prema- we should also strive to smoothen subsistence to intensive commercial peace and stability without which The former National University of ture to start talking as if I am already the path for justice for everyone by production taking advantage of Le- the country cannot achieve socio- Lesotho economics lecturer said he the Prime Minister-designate. Much reforming and capacitating the judi- sotho’s abundant water resources. economic development. was inspired to join politics by the still has to happen before that point. ciary.” With climate-adapted agriculture He however, said despite his en- realisation that “you need political “It has been quite a taxing exer- He also spoke on the need for pro- we can reduce our food imports by dorsement by the ABC MPs, he was power to make transformational de- cise to get to where we are today fessional security agencies free from half and achieve food security. The still not a shoo-in to succeed Dr Tha- cisions for the betterment of people’s and we still have not reached our interference by politicians who often transformation to producing more bane. He said the premier remained live”. destination. This (election) was just a meddled in these institutions with fruit and vegetables has already be- in office until he chose to step down. He however, cautioned that his response to the prime minister’s re- negative effects on the stability of the gun but we need more investment.” He said even then, the ABC still had election by the ABC legislators was quest of choosing a successor. country. He however emphasised While Dr Majoro has been talking to secure the support of its coalition not a guarantee that he would suc- “There is still a lot that has to be the importance of striking a balance about taking over when Dr Thabane partners before he could take over. ceed the premier, adding much done before he (Dr Thabane) leaves between a security sector free from eventually steps down, authorita- Dr Majoro polled 26 votes to beat more needed to be done before he office and it is also worth noting that political interference and one that tive sources this week told the Leso- his nearest challenger, ABC chair- could be called the “Prime Minister- the ABC does not constitute the ma- was subject to civilian authority. tho Times that the ABC’s NEC was in person Samuel Rapapa who got 18. designate”. jority in parliament on its own. It “Political interference in the secu- talks with the opposition Democratic Ministers Prince Maliehe (Trans- “Our party has made its decision is therefore imperative for us to go rity agencies is a perennial source of Congress (DC) to form a new govern- port) and Samonyane Ntsekele (Wa- on the succession and the prime back to our coalition partners and political instability in Lesotho and ment to replace the Thabane regime. ter) polled one vote each. The voting minister has accepted this decision,” consult to establish if they are still consequently Lesotho’s inability to The sources said Dr Majoro will was conducted last Sunday at the Dr Majoro said, adding, “When our interested in being in partnership grow its economy and reduce pov- be prime minister in the new coali- parliament building in Maseru. prime minister decides it is time for with us.” erty and hunger. Given its serious tion and he would be deputised by ABC bigwigs including party lead- him to go, we will of course be ready He said upon assuming power his repercussions, political interference DC leader Mathibeli Mokhothu. (See er Dr Thabane, his estranged deputy (to take over)”. priority would be to ensure the full has to be seen as an illegal activity lead story on page 2). Professor Nqosa Mahao and secre- “My election by the ABC’s mem- implementation of the multi-sector that attracts severe penalties. Yesterday, Dr Majoro’s mobile tary general Lebohang Hlaele all bers of the national assembly in the reforms. “On the other hand, the security phone rang unanswered and he did attended and witnessed the voting presence of our senate colleagues “Lesotho’s future success lies in agencies should be strictly subject to not respond to messages from the process. If the Mahao faction’s par- and the ABC’s national executive containing the impact of the Coro- best practices on civil-military rela- Lesotho Times seeking comment ticipation and subsequent pledge to committee simply meant that in the navirus. It also lies in the full im- tions. However, the security agen- over the reports. April 2 - 8 2020 Lesotho Times Advertisement 5

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Limpho Sello displaying symptoms, Dr Letsie said it was important to follow self-isolation ESOTHO remains free of the and quarantine measures. dreaded Coronavirus disease af- Meanwhile, the National Emergen- Lter samples taken from seven sus- cy Command Centre (NECC)’s Head pects tested negative in neighbouring of Publicity and Media, Ramakhula South Africa, the Ministry of Health Ramakhula, said investigations into has said. the death of one of the suspects were An eighth person who had initially underway. been named among those suspected “The eighth suspect passed on and to be infected with the virus is said investigations are underway to deter- to have died on Saturday while being mine to the cause of the death. transferred from ‘Mamohau Hospital “The fact that there are still no con- to Motebang Hospital in Leribe. firmed cases of COVID-19 puts Lesotho The news comes as a relief to the at an advantage of remaining corona- nation which was on the tenterhooks virus free if people could continue to over the weekend after Health Minis- adhere to World Health Organisation ter Nkaku Kabi announced that eight (WHO) and government guidelines suspected cases of Coronavirus infec- and safety protocols,” Mr Ramakhula tions had been reported in the country. said. In a statement yesterday, the Direc- The government has announced a tor General of Health Services, Nyane M689 million budget to fight COVID-19. Letsie, said the seven of the suspects’ In an interview with the Lesotho samples were dispatched to South Af- Times, NECC Incidence Manager, Lla- rica on Saturday and the results came ng Maama, said the money would be back negative yesterday. used to capacitate health personnel, “On 28 March, seven samples were increase the number of health workers taken to the Republic of South Africa at the country’s ports of entry as well for testing. All seven samples tested as facilitate the deployment of nurses negative for COVID-19,” Dr Nyane Let- to identified isolation and quarantine sie said. facilities. She said two other suspected cases “The health inspectors are also going were identified on Monday and three to be increased to boost the surveil- samples including that of the deceased lance and number of personnel at all who died over the weekend were the border posts,” Dr Maama said. shipped to South Africa yesterday. She added that the government Dr Letsie pleaded with the public would soon hire specialists to be de- to remain calm and maintain safety ployed at the isolation centers to offer protocols to prevent the spread of the services in the event that the country deadly virus. records cases of COVID-19 infections. She stressed the need to continu- “Some of the specialists will be locals ously wash hands with soap, observe but the government has also asked the coughing and sneezing etiquette and Cuban government to assist with spe- adhere to lockdown rules. For those cialist doctors,” Dr Maama said. NKAKU Kabi.

Let’s join the fight against Coronavirus: Mokhothu

Pascalinah Kabi ways of transferring monies to their families while those seeking employment must un- PPOSITION Democratic Congress (DC) derstand that there are no job opportunities leader Mathibeli Mokhothu has ap- in South Africa during the lockdown.” Opealed to the nation to set aside political He said government’s failure to come up differences and unite in the fight against the with a vibrant COVID-19 awareness cam- deadly Coronavirus, (also called COVID-19). paign should not be used as an excuse not Mr Mokhothu urged the government to to observe rules intended to protect lives. use part of the M700 million it had budg- He said the government should have em- eted to fight COVID-19 to fund the media for powered faith and traditional leaders, coun- education awareness campaigns about the sellours, chiefs, parliamentarians, political deadly virus. parties and civil society organisations with Lesotho has not reported any cases thus resources to educate their followers about far. But unlike other countries it hasn’t also the virus. conducted extensive tests due to lack of test- “I do not understand why government is ing equipment. failing to intensify education campaigns on The government has nevertheless taken this disease. They have deployed soldiers and the issue head on and imposed a 21-day lock- police to effect this lockdown. I think they down on Monday until 21 April 2020 as a should have also included education and precautionary measure to combat infections. awareness programmes as well. People are expected to stay at home during “The government must intensify the testing the lockdown except for those working in ga- exercise. Health workers must join soldiers zetted essential services. and police on the roadblocks to test people. In a radio broadcast this week, Mr Mok- We should try by all means to identify this vi- hothu called on all Basotho, regardless of rus early so that we can save lives and ensure their political affiliation, to observe the rules those who are negative remain negative.” of the lockdown by staying at home. He urged government to avail gloves and He said while the disease had negative ef- other sanitary equipment to all essential ser- fects on economic activities worldwide, peo- vices providers including media houses. ple still had to heed the call to stay at home. The opposition leader also appealed to the While economies could be rebuilt after disas- security agencies to carry out their duties in ters, lives could never be regained once lost. a respectful manner. He asked them to be pa- “It (COVID-19) is a national issue,” Mr Mok- tient with the public and refrain from perse- hothu said, adding, “As leaders we need peo- cuting them especially as people’s lives had ple alive”. already been disrupted by the virus. “The government may be making a lot of He said any brutality by police and army mistakes in regard to information dissemina- in enforcing the lockdown could divert atten- tion but I appeal to you all to remain calm. tion from the immediate challenge of con- Staying at home is in the best interests of our taining the disease. people because this deadly disease is infec- Mr Mokhothu said it was worrying that tious. children were being left to play outside in “We will be able to rebuild economies af- large numbers at their homes even after ter this pandemic but lives lost will only be schools had been closed to protect them. regained on the resurrection day…Please stay He appealed to parents to ensure that chil- indoors. Those in the country must stay put dren were kept apart from each other as one and not fight to go to South Africa. Those in infected child could spread the virus to an MATHIBELI Mokhothu. South Africa must stay there. They must find entire community. April 2 - 8 2020 Lesotho Times News 7

Ntsebeng Motsoeli/Marafaele Mohloboli HE government has announced a strict Taxis, motorists to observe strict timetable for taxis and private motorists Tduring the 21-day nationwide lockdown. Failure to comply could result in a taxi owner being barred from operating during the lock- timetable during lockdown down which began on Monday and ends on 21 April 2020. The nationwide lockdown is aimed at pre- venting the spread of the deadly Coronavirus. In a statement this week, the Ministry of . . . as govt announces penalties for breaking lockdown rules Transport’s spokesperson, Ntumeleng Nt- sekhe, said all public transport vehicles were expected to operate from 6am to 10 am and again from 3pm to 6pm. Ms Ntsekhe said pri- vate motorists would only be allowed on the roads from 6am to 6pm. Thereafter only those who had government-issued permits confirm- ing that they were employed in gazetted es- sential services would be allowed to travel to enable them to perform their duties. “Minicabs or 4+1s, as they are popularly re- ferred to, are allowed to carry only two pas- sengers per trip exclusive of the driver,” Ms Ntsekhe said. “Only 45 minicabs will be allowed to trans- port passengers each day in Maseru while 20 minicabs will transport commuters in each city in the other nine districts.” She said that only five minibuses would be allowed to ply a single route per day and each vehicle would only be allowed to carry only nine passengers instead of the usual 15. “All city to city and district to district trips are prohibited. Only selected vehicles are expected to transport commuters within the stipulated time,” Ms Ntsekhe said. A government gazette issued this week by the transport department states that all pub- lic and private transport is restricted except for buses, taxis, aeroplanes and private cars which will ferry people “for the purposes of rendering and obtaining essential services and goods, seeking medical attention, funeral services and to receive payments of grants”. The strict regulations have resulted in many shortage of public transport. mitted to do so will be fined M10 000. nated for quarantine and placed on medical passengers being stranded or taking much Meanwhile, Health Minister Nkaku Kabi has “All those who shall be found roaming the observation. Anyone who shall refuse to be longer to get their destinations. announced more penalties for those anyone streets without permission shall be taken to taken to this place shall be fined M20 000 and The Lesotho Times this week observed breaking the lockdown rules. the courts of law and fined M5000. taken into forced isolation. This is not meant several commuters walking to and from the “Businesses that will be operational during “Anyone found to be infected with COVID-19 to harass anyone but to protect lives,” Mr Kabi central business district in Maseru due to the the lockdown period when they are not per- shall be mandatorily taken to a place desig- said this week. 8 News Lesotho Times April 2 - 8 2020

Mohalenyane Phakela

ATER Minister Samonyane Ntsekele has been dealt a Wsevere blow in his bid to Blow for Ntsekele as avoid arrest and prosecution in con- nection with the June 2017 murder of Prime Minister Thomas Thabane’s estranged wife, Lipolelo. This after it was decided that his court postpones hearing Constitutional Court application to stop the police from arresting and charging him over that issue can only be heard after the national lock- tions with DCP Mokete. down expected to end on 21 April Decision opens the door for his arrest He bizarrely claims in his papers 2020. that he cannot be charged with But more ominously for Mr Nt- any crime as long as he remains sekele, the courts did not issue an in office as minister and member interim order to stop the police from of parliament. He thus wants the acting against him in the meantime. court to declare the police’s inten- This means they can still proceed tions to criminally prosecute him to arrest and charge him if they so null and void. wish. Even though the police had dis- Deputy police commissioner Pase- closed their intentions to charge ka Mokete said the police would pro- him over the Lipolelo killing, Mr ceed with their action against Mr Nt- Ntsekele said they did not specify sekele though he did not say when. what the charges would be. Mr Ntsekele’s application was It remains to be seen whether scheduled to be heard on Monday. or not the Constitutional Court will However, the Assistant Registrar of grant Mr Ntsekele’s application the High Court, Starford Sharite, told especially in light of the fact that the Lesotho Times that the court had another minister, Mahali Phamo- resolved to hear the matter after the tse, was recently charged with cor- lockdown, declared by the govern- ruption arising from a 2015 high ment as part of efforts to curb the schools textbooks tender awarded spread of the Coronavirus pandem- while she was still Education and ic. Training minister. Nowhere in “Mr Ntsekele’s lawyer, Qhalehang the constitution does it say that a Letsika, and the police lawyer, Ad- cabinet minister cannot be charged vocate Tekane Maqakachane, were with any crimes while in office. present at court on Monday. They Should his application fail and were ready to proceed with the mat- he is charged, Mr Ntsekele will join ter but it was agreed by all parties Dr Thabane, First Lady ‘Maesaiah that the matter will be heard after Thabane, prominent famo musi- the lockdown,” Adv Sharite said. cian and All Basotho Convention “This matter has been postponed (ABC) activist Mosotho Chakela like that of Messrs (Mothetjoa) Met- (real name Rethabile Mokete) sing and (Selibe) Mochoboroane among high profile personalities which was also set for Monday but in the dock over the murder which had to be postponed due to the lock- occurred just two days before Dr down.” SAMONYANE Ntsekele. Thabane was inaugurated for his Messrs Metsing and Mochoboro- second stint as premier. ane have filed an application to stop Dr Thabane has since petitioned the state from trying them for trea- the Constitutional Court to have the son against the first government of calling Mr Ntsekele therefore they “I am working with my team to saying high-profile people including charges dropped on the grounds Prime Minister Thomas Thabane. can continue with their plans to call call in Mr Ntsekele again. As is the ministers and other government of- that he should not be tried for any The charges arise from their alleged him in,” Adv Maqakachane said. case with everyone else who we ficials would soon be arrested and crime while he remains in office as roles in the August 2014 attempted Deputy police commissioner Pas- have called in, there are certain is- charged with the murder. prime minister. coup. eka Mokete said they would now sues we need him to clarify. He has nevertheless steadfastly Mosotho Chakela remains at Regarding Mr Ntsekele’s applica- proceed and do exactly that. He “I was shocked by the claims and shied away from revealing their large and has not appeared in tion, the police’s lawyer Adv Maqa- however denied claims by Mr Nt- his rush to court saying we intend to identities until they are in fact for- court yet, alongside other suspects kachane said in the absence of an in- sekele that the police had told him charge him with the murder (of Li- mally charged. Seabata Sello, Molefi Matima and terim order barring them from act- they intended to charge him in con- polelo). When I called him, I did not In his application filed last Friday, Macheli Koeshe. ing, the police could go ahead with nection with the murder of Lipolelo. disclose why we wanted to see him,” Mr Ntsekele states that he learnt of The police have since declared the interrogation of the minister. Mr Mokete said they had only told DCP Mokete told the Lesotho Times the police’s intentions to charge him all four fugitives from justice and “There was no court order issued the minister to report to the police this week. in connection with the Lipolelo mur- issued notices for public help to ar- on Monday barring the police from over the murder. Mr Mokete is however on record der through his extensive interac- rest them. Gun-toting burglars raid Home Affairs PS’ home

’Marafaele Mohloboli Lemphane-Letsie blames RCL infighting for incident HE principal secretary in the Ministry of Home Affairs, ’Machabana Lemphane- TLetsie, and her family were subjected to “It was around 1am on Sunday when a man however suspects that the attack on her home “This (bribe claim) was just used to divert a harrowing ordeal by masked gun-toting bur- walked into my bedroom wielding a gun and is linked to the power struggle in the RCL. the attention from the actual motive of the glars who broke into her Masianokeng home lighting up the room with a torch from his cell- The RCL is a junior partner in the four-party attack and I would be naive to divorce this and made off with M10 000 early this week. phone,” Ms Lemphane-Letsie said. coalition which also features Prime Minis- from the ongoing fights within the Reformed Ms Lemphane-Letsie said the burglars told “I screamed and he hushed me. He threat- ter Thomas Thabane’s All Basotho Conven- Congress of Lesotho. I have every reason to her they wanted a share of the bribes she alleg- ened to shoot me if I screamed again and this tion (ABC), Deputy Prime Minister Monyane suspect that this robbery could be the result of edly received from controversial businessman time I fearfully obeyed. He demanded money Moleleki and Communications, Science and the infighting within our party,” said Ms Lem- Yan Xie (also known as Mr John) who has been he claimed I had been given as a bribe by Mr Technology Minister Thesele ‘Maseribane’s phane-Letsie. awarded several government tenders over the John the Chinese tycoon. I just didn’t know Basotho National Party (BNP). Police spokesperson Superintendent Mpiti years. what to do because I didn’t even know what Ms Lemphane-Letsie was recently “elected” Mopeli said they had received a report of the She, however, suspects that the attack on he was talking about and I didn’t have that RCL leader at a special conference held after burglary at Ms Lemphane-Letsie’s home and her home is linked to her ongoing battle with money. party members “passed” a no confidence vote were investigating. Labour and Employment Minister Keketso “All I had in the house was M10 000 which on Ms Rantšo and called for fresh elections to Ms Lemphane-Letsie is the second-high pro- Rantšo for the control of the Reformed Con- was not even mine and I gave him that. He choose a new national executive committee file female politician to be robbed at gunpoint gress of Lesotho (RCL). then ripped off the surveillance camera and (NEC). in her home in less than a year. Mr John is an infamous and crooked busi- headed towards the door where two other Ms Rantšo’s supporters have, however, Last July, ABC deputy spokesperson ‘Mate- nessman of Chinese origin who stands accused masked men were standing. launched a court application for the nullifica- batso Doti was stabbed five times by eight of routinely bribing government officials and “My son, who had escaped through his bed- tion of the “special conference” and the “elec- unknown assailants who broke into her Litha- politicians to get his way. He allegedly paid room window, ran off and raised the alarm tion” of Ms Lemphane-Letsie and others. baneng home. his way to get a park homes tender from the with our neighbours. At that point the gunmen “This attack comes barely a few days af- The incident happened at the height of the Ministry of Home Affairs in collaboration with made their escape, dumping my car keys and ter my driver was hit and killed by a car. His ABC power struggle pitting ABC leader and some local business people in February 2019. handbag on the floor. I was shaken. death came as a shock to me and it also opened Prime Minister Thomas Thabane against his Ms Mempane-Letsie denies any dealings with Before that, they went into my daughters’ my eyes to the need to get security. deputy, Professor Nqosa Mahao. Ms Doti be- him. bedroom and pointed a gun at her. None of “It also defies logic as to how anyone would lieves the incident was actually an assassina- Narrating her ordeal to the Lesotho Times us were harmed but we are traumatised. We want money now purportedly from a bribe I tion attempt after the assailants allegedly told this week, Ms Lemphane-Letsie said she thank God that we were not harmed in any allegedly received last year for giving John a her that they had been sent to kill her for sid- was fast asleep when she was awoken by a way.” park homes tender in February 2019. There is ing with Prof Mahao in the ABC power strug- light beamed into her bedroom as a tall man Although the burglars said they were after no way I would still be having that money if at gle. She lost M4000 and two guns in the inci- walked in. Mr Xie’s “bribe money”, Ms Lemphane-Letsie all I had been bribed. dent. April 2 - 8 2020 Lesotho Times News 9 Don’t abuse civilians during lockdown: Molibeli

’Marafaele Mohloboli pandemic by controlling unnec- seek our guidance.” essary movements of people”. Commissioner Molibeli also OLICE Commissioner Ho- Health Minister Nkaku Kabi appealed to civil servants not to lomo Molibeli (pictured) said the security forces had steal or misappropriate protec- Phas appealed to the police assured him that they were tive equipment donated to help and army to observe human “ready to hit the ground run- fi ght the deadly virus. rights and refrain from acts of ning and do their job”. “This outbreak is not a joke brutality against citizens dur- Dr Thabane and Mr Kabi’s an- and we have witnessed the ing the nationwide lockdown. nouncements had heightened havoc it has wreaked in some The 21-day lockdown began fears that the security agencies, countries. We would therefore after midnight on Monday. It who have a history of brutality urge everyone to adhere to was announced last Wednes- against citizens, could commit what medical personnel are ad- day by Prime Minister Thomas atrocities under the guise of vising us to do in order to curb Thabane as part of efforts to enforcing compliance with the this virus. curb the spread of the deadly lockdown. “This includes frequent wash- Coronavirus which has infected Commissioner Molibeli this ing and sanitisation of hands. It hundreds of thousands of peo- week pleaded with the security is our wish that by the end of ple and killed more than 40 000 forces to enforce the lockdown this lockdown no one would around the world. without resorting to torture have been infected or lost a life. The movement of people will and other human rights viola- “I urge everyone to work in be restricted during the lock- tions. harmony with the police, secu- down except for those working “I would like to plead with rity personnel and health work- in essential services such as the the police and army personnel ers as we all have a part to play media, health, security agen- to execute their mandate with to beat this pandemic. This is cies, banks, pharmacies, energy respect and kindness,” Commis- not the time for business peo- and fuel providers and agricul- sioner Molibeli said in a state- ple to take advantage by hiking tural services. ment. prices and anyone who does While announcing the lock- “We would not like to hear that should be reported to the down, Dr Thabane ordered the any reports of gross human vio- police on the telephone number army and police “to immediate- lations on our people as we are 22322099,” Commissioner Moli- ly effect strategies to curb this there to help them where they beli said. AD special conference postponed over Coronavirus

’Marafaele Mohloboli gest member of the ruling four-party govern- otse fi red from both her party position and tures by the party leadership to meet and dis- ing coalition passed no confi dence votes in cabinet post after she was charged with cor- cuss their grievances, threatening to drag the HE ruling Alliance of Democrats (AD) the Moleleki-led NEC over several grievances ruption for allegedly infl uencing the awarding NEC to court if the special conference was not indefi nitely postponed its special confer- including its failure to expel secretary general of a 2015 high schools textbook tender to Epic held. Tence called after restive party members Mahali Phamotse for alleged corruption. Printers and Molumeli Pty (Ltd). She is on free The AD is the second biggest in the four-par- passed a no confi dence vote against party Mr Litjobo said, among other grievances, bail over the charges. ty coalition which also features the ABC, BNP leader Monyane Moleleki and his entire na- the constituency committees want Dr Pham- The constituency committees spurned over- and RCL. tional executive committee (NEC). The conference had been scheduled for the weekend of 27 to 29 March 2020. It had to be postponed after the government declared a 21- day national lockdown to contain the deadly coronavirus. AD spokesperson Thuso Litjobo said the par- ty conference could not go ahead as planned due to the lockdown. “The much-anticipated special conference to clean our house had to be postponed indefi - nitely,” Mr Litjobo said. “In as much as we wanted to hold it, the par- ty understands that the lives of Basotho are far more important and as law-abiding citizens we ought to follow the rules of the lockdown. We therefore postponed the conference indefi - nitely.” The special conference was called after 26 constituency committees in the second big-

MAHALI Phamotse. 10 News Lesotho Times April 2 - 8 2020

Limpho Sello AKHOASE Ranyali-Otubanjo sits edgi- Dr Ranyali-Otubanjo spearheads ly as gusts of the morning breeze blow Minto her Ministry of Health Headquar- ters office. There is an air of determination around her but her demeanour betrays an underlying fight against coronavirus fear. It is just after 8am and her office is already a the challenge of assisting the country to fight hive of activity with droves of visitors coming the virus as soon as it is detected in the coun- in while her phone rings every minute. Some try. of those calls are from members of the public “I am committed and ready to dedicate my anxiously seeking clarification on the Corona- time and skills to ensuring that lives are saved virus (also COVID-19) and reporting suspected but this is something I cannot do on my own,” cases. Ministers and senior government offi- Dr Ranyali-Otubanjo said adding that every- cials also demand her full attention. one must contribute to fighting the disease. The 49-year-old medical doctor is one of the Although Lesotho is one of the few African three medical practitioners tasked with spear- countries yet to register any COVID-19 cases, heading Lesotho’s fight against the deadly Dr Ranyali-Otubanjo is not leaving anything to COVID-19. chance. She has seen what an epidemic of the As of yesterday, almost 900 000 had been magnitude of COVID-19 can do in her previous infected with COVID-19 around the world and job as the District Medical Officer in Butha- more than 44 000 deaths had been recorded. Buthe from 2000 and 2004. Equally sobering for Dr Ranyali-Otubanjo is Her experience in dealing with the HIV and the fact that 66 doctors have died of the disease AIDS pandemic in Lesotho in the early 2000s in Italy. ensures she never becomes complacent in the Closer to Lesotho, doctors in Zimbabwe re- execution of her duties. cently downed tools fearing they too could At the time, many doctors like Dr Ranyali- contract the virus if they are not provided Otubanjo felt helpless as there were limited or with protective gear. They demanded protec- no supplies of medical equipment and other tive clothing and other perks before they can necessities to assist HIV positive patients. attend to patients. Here in Lesotho, health “Other opportunist diseases creeped in for professionals have also given the government most people living with HIV and lots of people until tomorrow to provide protective clothing died,” Dr Ranyali-Otubanjo said. and risk allowances as they are exposed to the Feeling defeated at the time, Dr Ranyali-Otu- virus in their work with hospitals. If not, they banjo knew something needed to be done and will “protect” themselves by refraining from decided to make a difference. work. “Realising there was nothing I could do for But Dr Ranyali-Otubanjo is not deterred. patients, I decided to join Senkatana ART Clinic Hers is a calling and like that of a soldier and in Lithabaneng, Maseru,” she said. she fights on the front line. A product ofCu- The HIV scourge subsequently inspired the ba’s renowned medical training schools, she mother of two to go back to medical school and is inspired by the 52 Cuban doctors currently pursue a Master’s Degree in Medicine major- assisting the virus-ravaged Italy to beat the ing in HIV and Sexual Transmitted Infections scourge. (MMED STI/HIV) in 2007. “I have been in several emergency response She pursued her post-graduate studies at the programmes before and my seniors saw it fit University of Sydney in Australia. for me to be part of the COVID-19 prepared- MAKHOASE Ranyali-Otubanjo. She returned home a year later and took on ness response team.” various jobs including heading the Multi-Drug “Soldiers have done it before, so we should is something that grew in me. I have always are frightened by the current situation. I had Resistant (MDR) Tuberculosis programme not back down now,” she said in an interview wanted to help the sick and vulnerable. to make them understand that one day I’m go- at Partners-in-Health in Maseru. All these with the Lesotho Times this week. “I have been watching closely the cases of ing to die. But that does not mean I am going to experiences in dealing with epidemics have “We must push forward and do what is COVID-19 around the world. I can’t sit here back down from the fight against the virus,” Dr prepared her for what could be her greatest right by responding to our calling and save the and lie that I am not scared. I am scared. My Ranyali-Otubanjo said. challenge- spearheading the fight against COV- world. I did not become a doctor by chance. It children are scared. My parents and relatives She is and her three colleagues are up for ID-19 in Lesotho.

developed during negotiations be- tween government and various New salary structures divide teachers teachers’ unions to address teachers’ longstanding grievances concerning their working conditions and salary Ntsebeng Motsoeli/ There will be no salary differ- for being initiated, revised and ap- structure which was last reviewed in Mohalenyane Phakela ences for primary and secondary proved by first and second respond- 2009. school teachers who hold Honours ents without legal authority and con- In the negotiations, teachers were EACHERS are divided over and Masters Degrees. Their annual trary to Education Act 2010. represented by their unions, LAT, the newly proposed Teachers’ salaries have been improved from “The publication by the sixth re- LTTU and LeSPA. TCareer and Salary Structures M180 984 to M183 524 for Honours spondent of the revised Teachers’ LAT secretary general Letsatsi which are supposed to be imple- Degree holders and from M185 484 Career Structure 2019 and Teach- Ntsibolane said the primary school mented in the 2020/21 financial year. to M188 307 for teachers with Mas- ers’ Salary Structure 2019 shall be teachers’ complaints were misin- The Revised Teachers’ Career ters Degrees. declared irregular, unlawful, null formed and that all teachers’ repre- Structure was published on 19 Justice Tšeliso Monapathi last and void. Teaching Service (Amend- sentatives were involved in the craft- September 2019 while the Revised week issued an interim interdict ment) Regulations 2016 shall be de- ing of the new salary structures. Teachers’ Salary Structure was pub- in favour of the aggrieved teachers clared null and void and of no force He said the court case was a de- lished on 6 March 2020. staying the implementation of the and effect in law for contravening liberate attempt to create confusion However, a group of aggrieved revised Teachers’ Salary and Career section 27A and 27B of the Interpre- among teachers by elements who primary school teachers last week Structures of 2019 until the matter is tation (Amendment) Act 1993,” the are hoping to get traction for a new successfully petitioned the High heard. The matter was initially sup- teachers’ say in their papers. union. Court to interdict the implementa- posed to be heard on 7 April 2020 but In his founding affidavit, one of “This confusion is being deliber- tion of the two structures. has now been postponed indefinite- the primary school teachers, Makhe- ately caused by some individuals They are unhappy with the M1300 ly due to the ongoing Coronavirus tha Tšephe, said the teachers want who want to form and new teach- variation between the primary and induced lockdown. the two structures nullified in that ers’ association and they are feeding secondary teachers’ salaries which “The implementation of the Teach- they crafted by the Ministry of Edu- wrong information to the teachers the new structure will introduce ers’ Career Structure 2019… Teach- cation and Training instead of the so that they can turn their backs on at entry level. At entry level, high ers’ Salary Structure 2019 shall be Teaching Council as stipulated by their current union,” Mr Ntsibolane school teachers will earn M1300 stayed pending the final determi- Education Act of 2010. said. more than their primary school nation of this application,” Justice “In initiating, reviewing, revising He also alleged that there was a counterparts despite holding the Monapathi’s interim order states. and publishing the revised Teachers’ political force behind the disgrun- same qualifications. The government, Ministry of Edu- Career Structure 2019, and deciding tled teachers. For teachers who are already em- cation, Ministry of Finance, Teaching to be implemented on 1 April 2020, “We know that there is a political ployed by the government, holders Service Commission, Teaching Coun- the first and second respondents force behind them…this is my own of Diplomas in primary and sec- cil, Principal Secretary Ministry of failed to appreciate and understand opinion.” ondary education will respectively Education, Attorney General, Leso- the limit of their own powers; went Mr Ntsibolane however, refused earn M124 357 and M124 919 annu- tho Teachers Trade Union (LTTU), beyond their respective legal pow- to divulge whom he suspected was ally. The two will have a variation of Lesotho Association of Teachers LETSATSI Ntsibolane. ers; usurped the powers and au- behind the court case saying it was M213, 50. Both primary and second- (LAT), Progressive Association of thority of the Teaching Council; and “a story for another day”. ary school teachers with Diplomas Lesotho Teachers (PALT) and Leso- therefore acted illegally and unlaw- Mr Ntsibolane said it would be previously earned M123 204 annu- tho Schools Principals Association Career Structure 2019… Teachers’ fully. best if they let the structure to be th ally. (LeSPA) are first to 11 respondents Salary Structure 2019 and to imple- “Only the Teaching Council has the implemented as it is so that we could Primary school teachers who hold respectively. ment the said structure(s) by 1 April authority to perform the acts done later work on its shortcomings. degrees will earn M162 006 while In terms of final reliefs, the teach- 2020 shall be reviewed, corrected by the first and second respondents “We have not worked so long and those in secondary schools will take ers want the salary structures to be and set aside as ultra vires and il- in the present instance and conse- hard, risking our lives in the process home M163 409 per year. Secondary nullified on grounds that they were legal therefore unlawful, null and quently the act and the decision of just to cause differences between school teachers will therefore earn revised and approved in contraven- void. the first and second respondents primary and secondary schools’ M116, 92 more monthly than their tion of the Education Act of 2010. “The revised Teachers’ Career is null and void and so the revised teachers. The structure was devel- primary school counterparts. They “The decision of the first and sec- Structure and the Teachers’ Salary Teachers’ Career Structure 2019,” Mr oped in the presence of representa- both previously earned M160 008 ond respondents to initiate, revise Structure 2019 shall be declared ir- Tšephe states. tives from primary and secondary per annum. and approve the revised Teachers’ regular, unlawful, null and void The new salary structure was school teachers,” Mr Ntsibolane said. April 2 - 8 2020 Lesotho Times Advertorial 11 1212 Leader Leader LesothoLesotho Times Times JanuaryApril 23 2 - -29 8 20202020

Publisher & CEO Thabelo Monamane Marketing Accounts Lesotho Times Basildon Peta Ntatoua Koeshe Nteboheleng Ramphale Limpho Snyman News without fear or favour Editor Limpho Sello Nthabiseng Sepipi Letsabisa Seeiso Herbert Moyo Ntsebeng Motsoeli Lindiwe Shongwe A2220 Lower Thetsane, Maseru 100 Lehana Mokhatholane Circulation Nthelle Molotsi Tel: +266 2231 5356, Tel: +266 52500 600 Newsroom Production Seisa Peete News: [email protected] Mohalenyane Phakela Tlali Khaula Advertising: [email protected] ‘Marafaele Mohloboli Thabo Thoahlane Pascalinah Kabi Moletsane Makhabane Distribution: [email protected] Moorosi Tsiane Rethabile Monyake Website: www.lestimes.co.ls Bereng Mpaki CommentComment LetBravo us Thabane… unite lets to fihave ght new this PM soonestvirus ATS off to Prime Minister Thomas Thabane for fi nally agree- ing to step down. What remains however, is for the veteran Hpolitician to walk his own talk and actually leave offi ce. HIS week marked the start of a nationwide lockdown or- Aboutdered this by time the last government year the premier to curb was the declaring spread his of intention the deadly Tto ruleCoronavirus until 2027. Throughout pandemic 2019,which some has ofinfected his closest more allies than were 800 000telling people whoever worldwide cared to and listen killed that aboutthere was 40 000, no vacancy with many at State more casualtiesHouse and appearing in the All Basotho inevitable. Convention (ABC) because Dr Tha- baneLesotho was ashas fi t hithertoas a fi ddle been and goingspared nowhere. of the mayhem. But we can- not Whatafford this any means complacency. is that his decision The fact to go,of announcedbeing hemmed last week on all sidesand repeated by South on Africa, Monday, which was not has an escalating easy one nor infections, could it have and in lightbeen of voluntary. our own It is lack diffi ofcult testing to see how resources else he could to take have stock decided of our owngiven infections the intense levels, pressure we remain exerted severelyby his own exposed. party, the opposi- tionAll andBasotho non-governmental and everyone organisations else resident for in him this tokingdom step down must thusdue heedto the the sensational lockdown allegations order and that stay he atand home. his wife, ‘Maesaiah ThabaneAs announced murdered by hisPrime former Minister wife, Lipolelo Thomas Thabane, Thabane, on the14 June move- ment2017. of people will be highly restricted throughout the lock- down.Dr Thabane Except made for those no mention engaged of the in essentialmurder allegations services when the rest ofhe the announced nation should his intention stay at to home retire. until He only 21 April spoke 2020. of his We “wan- hope bying then stamina” the situation after more would than fihave ve decades normalised in the aroundcivil service the andworld and in neighbouring South Africa which presents our greatest politics- an admission which was all the more interesting coming threat. asThe it did essential a day after services one of hisare staunch tabulated allies, in SmallDr Thabane’s Business Devel-Wednes- dayopment speech Minister and in Chalane the government Phori, had gazettenot only announcing shot down the the talk lock- Cutting Edge down.of his imminent These are retirement the media, but also health said sector,the veteran security leader agencies,was of Cutting Edge banks,sound mind pharmacies, and as fi t energyas a fi ddle. and fuel providers, supermarkets andEven grocery if he shops,will not agricultural admit to the servicespressure fromand somethe groundswell critical gov- ernmentof opinion ministries. against him, Dr Thabane’s decision is still a bold one whichAccording must be to commended. the gazette, Africa the following is littered with are so all many non-essential exam- servicesples of leaders and should who either be closed failed foror refused the duration to read ofthe the writings lockdown: on CanThe Africa power really to save benefi ourselves t from Brexit? from liquorthe wall businesses and had to (such be dragged as night kicking clubs, and public screaming bars, fromtaverns, their off sales,leadership clubs posts. and service canteens), accommodation, catering N August 2018, then-Prime Minister rently in, there are other, and entirely home- andIn tourism Ivory Coast, enterprises one Koudou such Laurentas campsites, Gbagbo hotels, had to lodges, be pulled guest Theresa May became the fi rst British grown reasons why Africa will likely not be houses, restaurants, bed and breakfast outlets, youth hostels, re- coronavirus is in our hands out of a manhole where he had taken refuge after months of resist- Ileader in fi ve years to visit sub-Saharan Rashid Abdallah able to capitalise on Britain’s imminent exit sortsing calls and by motels. his own people to go. Much closer home in Zimbabwe, Africa, making a three-day trip that includ- from the EU. RobertThere Mugabe is no denying had to face the the fi nancial ignominy losses of being and ousted the likelihood in a coup of ed meetings with the presidents of South Buhari and Akufo-Addo’s statements In the recent past, African countries have some businesses failing to recover from the enforced closures. OUTH Africa has registered its vulnerable of all countries that may by his erstwhile military colleagues in 2017. Africa, Nigeria and Kenya. May was on the were not empty pleasantries, rather they signed countless cooperation agreements There is however no other way. If human lives are to be saved, fi rst fatality as a result of Covid-19 be impacted by Coronavirus. We have Given this background of African leaders attempting to swim with nations across the world, from the EU these strict measures are unavoidable. continentS disease to boost caused post-Brexit by novel trade Corona- and were expressionsBathabile of an ever-growing belief the highest rate of HIV/Aids infections against the tide of popular opinion, we therefore take our hats off convincevirus. African It is with leaders deep that sadness the United that we across the continent that post-Brexit Brit- toin the the US world, and Turkey. which Every already country compro- in the toThe our prospectpremier for of heeding staying the at calls home for him may to prove retire. diffi cult as we have seen in some countries which have already begun their Kingdom’scome to exit this from point. the Condolences European Union to the ain could provide a quick fi x for stagnating world,mises after the all, immune wants a share system, of Africa’s and therich What remains though, is for him to walk his own talk. He has Dlamini lockdowns. And while the anxiety, psychological pain and hope- wouldfamily provide who their lost nationstheir loved with one. new and African economies. It is still questionable, resources.ability of But, our despite bodies the to plethora fi ght of against invest- lessnessnot given likely a date to for result his departure. from the We lockdown have also is seen understandable, envoys of lucrativeThe trade country and investment has crossed partnerships one thou- however, whether the anticipated new rela- ments,opportunistic African countriesdiseases. sank ever deeper again,South there African is no President other way. Cyril Ramaphosa jet in for talks in the withsand the UK. infections in the fourth week of tionship will ever materialise and, perhaps intoWe poverty. have Today,a high Africa rate ofis the poverty world’s and sec- daysThis preceding pandemic the is announcementan existential crisis of the requiring premier’s imminentextra-ordinary re- Inthe a speech fi rst reported in Cape case Town, of patient she pledged zero. It even Nothingmore importantly, is more heartbreaking whether Africa thanwill ond-fastest-growinghunger, leading to region, us being and yetunable 100 mil-to measures.tirement. We Humanity can only isintelligently under threat. guess The from virus all these knows comings no race, four is billion clear poundsthat we ($5.3bn)are facing in supporta major forchal- be ablehearing to benefi of medicalt from it if personnel and when it in does. Italy lionget more the nutrition Africans live required in extreme to build poverty a socialand goings status, that gender there and must age. be Evenissues royalty to be ironed has not out been before spared. the Africanlenge economies, with this to pandemic. create jobs for young Firstgetting of all, overstretched it is highly unlikely beyond that capac-John- todaystrong, compared resilient with immune the 1990s. system. Sub-Saha- Thepremier United can Kingdom’s take his bow. heir to the throne, Prince Charles, and the people.At She fi rst, also it pledged was those a “fundamental who travelled sonity. is going You doto give not priority want medicalto securing staff new to ran OurAfrica, last in particular, line of is defencehome to the against largest BritishEven Prime erstwhile Minister warring Boris ABC factions Johnson buried are amongthe hatchet infected on the vic- shift”to in theaid spending high-risk to countries focus on long-term who were dealsbe with forced African to make nations decisions following of who his shareCoronavirus of people living is to in isolate, extreme and poverty. avoid tims.eve of the retirement announcement. Very likely this new-found economicaffected. and But security now, we challenges have entered rather a country’shas to imminentlive or who exit hasfrom to the die, EU. just After be- movementThe main reasonthat may behind increase African the nations’ rate unityThese is justare desperatea marriage times.of convenience As the sages to give of oldthe tellABC us, the desperate num- thanperiod short-term where poverty there reduction. are a lot of local all, cause the populist there are prime no ministerways to save never them. em- inabilityof infections to reap ofthe the rewards virus of —international through infections. Nothing is more heartbreaking than to the national shutdown. Our last line timesbers in call parliament for desperate to choose measures. Dr Thabane’s There successor. is no other way. The May’s promise to create a “global Britain” braced his predecessor’s dreams for a “glob- cooperation and investment is corruption. The greatest lesson from the coun- have your loved ones being ill, and you of defence is national unity, to save governmentOurs is to say really that hadwhatever no choice is going but behind to emulate the scenes, South be it Africane- Cooperation with post-Brexit Britain, there- that tries views that Africa managed as a primary to stop the trade rapid part- rise al Britain”cannot andbe there focused to comfort instead onthem building at the ourselves, and in effect save others andgotiations many otherand horse-trading countries which over the have post-Thabane imposed lockdowns. era, must be ner triggered excitement and expectation closer ties between London and Washing- fore, can yield signifi cant dividends for Afri- swiftlyDiffi cult concluded as it may to seem,enable we the all prime have minister to play to our go partand haveby staying his in infections is that they acted quickly, time of need. from contracting this virus. Our last on theto continent. apply practical However, interventions her May 2019 that ton. cansline onlyof defence if African is appreciatingcountries clean that up theirthe atsuccessor home. As in someplace sohave the beencountry saying, can move the virus forward. doesn’t travel but As South Africans, we have a ben- resignationslow down and Boris the Johnson’s rate of infectionrise to pow- and Moreover,efi t of lessons many from African the countries nations cur- that actsshutdown on the domestic is not a front.punishment, but an peopleJust do.as our And Zimbabwean it can only colleagues be spread discovered, around the the world departure by those of er putstop the the realisation spread. Chinaof a stronger is a case relation- in point. rentlyhave have stemmed preferential the tide, access such to as the China. UK interventionMost African that countries is meant are blessedto save withus, whoa leader, travel. however It is therefore much it is necessary desired, is thatonly movement the beginning be but suspend- not ed until it is known for certain that the virus has been defeated. ship betweenChina post-Brexit locked down Britain the and cities Africa for becauseThe discipline of trade deals of the hashed citizens out overof China the hugeto save reserves our mothers, of precious children, natural resourcesand the the solution to a nation’s problems. into months, question. and Unlike enforce May, Johnson the mandatory barely yearssaved with them. the European Union, such as Eco- asmost well vulnerable as young and in the capable society. populations. TheFor Coronavirusthe record, we hashave plunged nothing against the whole the premier world intowho came unprec- edented turmoil with countries scurrying for measures to stop showeduse any of interest masks, in going Africa, as instead far asfocus- using nomicThe Partnership unity of theAgreements Chinese (EPAs)population and Moreover,I want they to commend have long the been great receiving lead- into power on the back of an electoral victory in June 2017. In fact, its spread in their territories. Some may say Lesotho is safe. But ing hisdrones attention to monitor solely on compliance. convincing theSouth theagainst Everything Coronavirus But Arms helped (EBA) initiative.them de- fi ershipnancial of support President from Ramaphosa the international at this wewe cannot have been be histoo avid sure supporter given the though fact thatwithout we ignoringdo not havehis nu- our BritishAfrica public imposed that he is the a 21-dayright man shutdown, to “get Followingfeat it. Brexit, When it the may people take considerable cooperated community.time of need. While The all this leadership could not ofhave the re- ownmerous testing shortcomings. facilities to We conduct presume extensive him innocent tests of as the other murder coun- Brexitwhich done”. is necessary to help stop the rap- timewith for the each authorities, nation to replace they did these not withdo it versedMinister all the of damage Health, colonialism Dr Zweli Mkhizehas done triesaccusations have done. until proven guilty by a competent court of law. Nevertheless,id rise of infections. African leaders, especially equivalentfor the policeor better or deals,army, and but they themselves. may be tohas the beencontinent, nothing under but better commendable. domestic con- ThereOur only is, as reason a result, for the wanting likelihood the process of people of his who retirement may actually to the onesWhat from we former need Britishto appreciate colonies that who the forcedAs to South pay increased Africans, tariff we sare for a their country ex- ditions,And the it could same have goes triggered to all an the economic other bebe walking swiftly concluded around unaware is to enable that the they country are toactually have a concrete,infected. If alreadyvirus have does signifi not cant move trade on relationsits own, itwith is the portsat to crossroads. the UK in the We process. have to choose be- boomministers, and carried who aremost at African the forefront nations outof thatstable suddenly leadership causes to take an the explosion nation forward. of cases, So manyas we things have needseen in the UK,people doubled who move down around on their who eff orts spread to Buttween even saving if a new the partnershipcountry or watching between ofa poverty.response to the pandemic. Italyto be and accomplished, Spain, then especiallywe will be the in multi-sectordeep, deep trouble.reforms without A vaccine charmit. ToBritain stop into the making spread ofthem the primary virus, we theit UK perish and as African a result nations of rebellious does miracu- con- ThatWe boom,have seen however, China failed beat to Corona- material- iswhose only projected implementation to be ready the country in 12 towould 18 months. not be able to achieve tradeneed partners to curb after a lot Brexit. of movements. Following Boris louslyduct. take shape soon after Britain’s exit ise.virus, Elites we across have the seen continent Iran flchose atten to the line theWe lasting cannot peace therefore and stability afford necessary to relax. forThe socio-economic lockdown is ade- wel- Johnson’sThere stunning is currently electoral novictory vaccine on De- or a from Wethe EU, have it will to choosenot be easy between for a conti- disre- theircurve, pockets and slowrather down than helpthe rateselevate of theirin- cure for this virus. Its consequences fection. On the other hand, we have comevelopment. proactive rather than reactive move to confront the virus cember 12, for example, Nigerian President nentgarding weighed the down shutdown, by multiple versus domestic support- nations. Corruption fl ourished, and tax rev- and effects are most devastating, espe- ing it, to save our nation. The future seen the devastating effect and conse- head-on.The country Yes, his is critics also among will say several the Coronavirus southern African has thrown nations Dr Muhammadu Buhari swiftly sent him a challenges to make immediate gains. enues and foreign aid were diverted into the cially the burden it places on the hos- generations are going to remember us quences of the virus in Italy and Spain. Thabane’sin the throes moribund of devastating political El-Nino career-induced a lifeline, food albeit shortages a short and one. congratulatory message, wishing the prime A signifi cant percentage of any gain Afri- bank accounts of the select few while mass- Buthunger. that misses the point. The Prime Minister was right to order pital system, and the negative social for the choices that we made as a na- The power to save ourselves from ministerimpact. well and expressing his hopes for can nations may make from a lucrative trade es were left to fend for themselves with little the Morelockdown than aand quarter save oflives. the population need food aid and of tion when the time called for us to. Coronavirus is in our hands, and it strongerIt tiesis only between limiting Nigeria our andmovement, the UK. and partnershipCoronavirus with post-Brexit is real! WeBritain, have for seenex- tostarts no support with from supporting their governments. interventions these,We therefore the United appeal Nations to says all Basotho71 000 rural to stay dwellers at home. are just Let’s “a step all be Ghana’sreducing Nana a human Akufo-Addo to human also contact off ered is ample,its devastating will immediately consequences. be cancelled In Italy, out suchIf African as the leaders national want to shutdown. form a genuinely We matureaway from enough famine”. to understand the need for such drastic meas- ures. Let’s not willfully disregard the directive, inconvenient as his congratulationswhat can save to us. Johnson, While thesaying, social “we im- duethere to their is a existing funeral debt every to thirtythe continent’s minutes. benefimust cial not partnership falter, and with this post-Brexit is the battle Brit- The government is also struggling to pay service providers and havepact an opportunity, may be a huge together, inconvenience, to renew and the mega-investor,We have seen China. the Whilecatastrophic Chinese effects debt ain,that they we needmust to not devise lose. a— new IOL approach to itour is. voting rights at the UN General Assembly were suspended last If we all follow the rules of the lockdown and observe all the strengthenconsequences the relations of doing between nothing our are two far cannotof Coronavirus stop Africa from in Spain, forming Iran, new the part- US, fi ghting corruption. Furthermore, week. All these pressing albeit embarrassing issues require a stable health precautions highlighted by experts, we will eventually countries,much focusing frightening. on enhancing This shut trade down and is a nerships,and many it will other indeed countries. make any Let future us learndeal Bathabile— Al Jazeera Dlamini is the president government to resolve them. It is for such reasons that we call for defeat this scourge. investment,sacrifi ce and we scaling all need up to prosperity make to for save lessfrom profi them.table. But beyond the debilitating ofRashid the ANCWL Abdallah and iswrites a journalist in her per- and the quick resolution of the leadership question. our peoples”.our nation. eff ectsAs of South the Chinese Africans, debt-trap we are Africa the is mostcur- cartoonist.sonal capacity. April 2 - 8 2020 Lesotho Times Advertorial 13

We are part of the solution

While the selling of alcohol is prohibited during the lockdown, Maluti Mountain Brewery (MMB) has adapted its operations to address the dire need and shortage of hand sanitizers in the country.

MMB distributed first batch of the pledged 5000 alcohol-based sanitizers to the Ministry of Health.

These sanitizers will particularly cater to all essential frontline workers who are leading the fight against COVID-19 and risking their own lives to ensure the safety of our citizens.

#FightCovid19 #FlattenTheCurve #MMBForLS

Maluti Mountain Brewery

44 Lioli Road, Industrial Area, Maseru, Lesotho P O Box 764, Maseru 100 14 Advertorial Lesotho Times April 2 - 8 2020

NOTICE – ALL LRA CLIENTS

Clients to access Services Online during Lockdown

Following an announcement by the Right Honourable the Prime Minister that Lesotho is going into lockdown as a precaution against the COVID-19 pandemic from Sunday 29th March to Tuesday 21st April 2020, the LRA being cognizant of the importance of self-quarantine to minimize the impact of this disease, in adherence, resolved to avail services provided to its Clients as articulated below.

The commercial borders (except for Moshoeshoe 1 International Airport) will remain operational to allow declarations and passage of essentials (mainly food and medicinal products).

The Service Centres will be closed for the duration of the lockdown, but the services as listed below will still be provided and accessed remotely and Clients are encouraged to make use of the following online platforms:

• Electronic Tax Clearance Certificate- accessible through the LRA website, • Filing Tax Returns using a dedicated email address: [email protected] • Using Payment Refencing tool available on LRA website for making payments. Clients are urged to make use of electronic transfers offered by commercial banks. Caution should be applied to ensure that transactions are properly referenced.

During this period, we urge all our Clients and the public at large to observe the importance of staying indoors, to be vigilant and to take proper precautions at all times. Our Clients should always adhere and observe the recommended health measures by:

• Observing social distancing by avoiding crowds; • Frequently washing hands with water and soap for at least 20 seconds; • Avoiding touching your mouth, eyes or nose; • Covering your mouth and nose with bent elbow or tissue when coughing or sneezing. Dispose of tissue immediately; and • Seeking medical care early when having a fever, cough and difficulty breathing.

During the lockdown period, any other service and or prior administrative commitments or arrangements between the LRA and Clients shall be attended to after the lockdown.

For all tax and border related inquiries our Clients will reach us via Online Instant Chat (accessible via the website) and through our Call Centre at 52215555/22235555.

Let us be responsible and stay safe.

@LesothoRevenue (+266) 52215555 / 22235555

@Lesotho Revenue Authority For more info visit: www.lra.org.ls April 2 - 8 2020 Lesotho Times Opnion 15

Suraya Scheba HE Covid-19 pandemic has laid bare the Covid-19 and the virulence of global intricate machinery necessary to keep Tglobal capitalism in motion. It has also revealed the inequalities central to the system. South Africa faces the risk of deepening exist- capitalism – the poor are on the frontline ing inequalities and placing the urban poor at the frontline of the pandemic during the lock- medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs), and This is because the remaking of FBW result- more acute for decades, have become apoca- down. But there are also glimmers of hope for industry. Overall, these measures amount to ed in the targeted provision of this instrument lyptic. more just futures and alternative value sys- a carefully considered response to largely as- only to those registered as indigent, the associ- What is critical now, is the emergence of tems. sist the formal sector in weathering the storm. ated conditional installation of water manage- a political response that elides the return to Praised as decisive by many, activists and criti- ment devices (WMD), and tariff increases be- “normality”, as this signals a return to ongoing The Diffusion of Covid-19 and the virulence cal analysts have argued that it is hopelessly ginning at the lowest tariff step, that effectively and intensified inequality. Instead, we require of capitalism inadequate in a country already defined by increase the price of water for low-income an incremental movement toward fostering a The Chinese city of Wuhan has reached notori- glaring inequality. consumers to make up for reduced consump- more just society. The first urgent step is the ety in the last few months as the site where the One of the most glaring gaps in the South tion levels among high-volume users. In the advancement of a programme that provides novel coronavirus, Covid-19, was first identi- African response, largely consistent with pack- context of a drought crisis, these interventions sufficient income, food and services to all fied in December 2019. The virus has since ages introduced around the world, is the ex- were designed to avoid a financial crisis for the South Africans to allow them to stay home. As diffused with rapidity across the globe, reach- clusion of workers within the informal sector. municipality, ensuring that the city’s model of covered in this paper by Mazibuko Jara, this ing over 150 countries, with over 660,000 con- This group of precarious workers constitute managing water remained financially solvent. thinking is already underway among South firmed cases and over 30,000 recorded deaths almost three million in South Africa, accord- We argue that these measures served to deep- African civil society groups that have devel- as of Sunday, 29 March 2020. ing to StatsSA, and include car guards, domes- en the marketisation and valuation of water, oped a “Programme of Action in the time of The pace of diffusion can be attributed to tic workers, waste pickers, casual labourers and further intensify water inequity. Covid-19: A call for social solidarity in South the multiple nodes of connection and flow and traders. In the absence of benefits, formal It is important to recognise that crisis is Africa”. The National Command Council, and that bind the world in service of global capital- employment contracts and state support, the a general condition of South African water nation, would benefit from engagement with ism. The pursuit of profit has led to an ongo- “working poor”’ find themselves at the front- governance, resulting in sustained inequity. this programme. The next and longer-term ing search for cheaper labour as well as new line of the economic fallout both in South Af- The threat of “Day Zero” was recognised and task is to attend to the project of remaking our consumer markets, with cities such as Wuhan rica and globally. These are workers who are named a crisis and, in its resolution, acted to re- socio-natural relations along more just lines. emerging as hubs for the manufacturers of caught between the choice of starvation or turn water access to those already included. At component parts for global corporations, in- facing the threat of the virus to sustain already the same time, the daily struggle experienced Finding hope during a pandemic cluding Apple, and global carmakers. China, precarious existences. by residents of informal settlements, backyard States globally are responding with economic more broadly, has emerged as central to the Alongside the informal sector, workers per- dwellings and low-income communities, was packages to try to manage the economic fall- engine of growth, more so in the last decade, forming “essential services” in retail, service neither acknowledged nor resolved. out and curb the spread of Covid-19. Already responsible for approximately 25 percent of and care work are also putting their lives at Instead, the crisis management response in- we have witnessed political responses that are global manufacturing and 17 percent of global risk in the name of care for fellow citizens. As tensified the struggle for these residents of the unprecedented. However, in most instances, GDP. has already been observed, self-isolation is a city. Consequently, historical inequity merged these responses fail to account for the most Hence, while the spread of Covid-19 was privilege and many can simply not afford to with climate uncertainty to create forms of vulnerable members of society and are also at precipitated by globalisation, the spread it- stay home. This is especially true in cities of continuing and intensifying “eco-apartheid” risk of enabling authoritarian state practices. self has ironically had a dramatically sombre the global South, defined by high and rising (to use a phrase coined by climate scholar and Furthermore, the economic imperative re- effect on global markets. Beginning in China rates of informal economic activity and infor- activist, Daniel Aldana Cohen). Furthermore, mains central, as strongly reflected in Donald and spreading across the system, we have wit- mal settlements. the drought crisis was not limited to Cape Trump’s recent statements that he would like nessed a slowdown and disruption of global In response, informal worker organisations Town and many communities continue to to see a return to business as usual by Easter. supply chains, reductions in consumer de- globally have been calling for the provision of struggle with basic access. Despite these multiple ambiguities and un- mand, remarkable constraints on the flow of a “basic income” or similar grant to support An ethnographic study carried out in Beacon certainties, what is clear is that Covid-19 has goods and people as governments institute the most vulnerable. While there have been Valley, Cape Town, by a student on this project surfaced the fractures and distortions of a sys- lockdowns, and dramatic drops in stock mar- indications from the presidency that a plan reveals how living with the WMD results in tem that depends on increased connectivity in ket valuations, reminiscent of the financial cri- for the poor is being developed, no announce- residents constantly weighing up various ac- pursuit of profit as opposed to solidarity. At the sis of 2007-2008. ments have been made. The situation is now tivities contributing to a physical and mental same time, a pandemic connects us all, mak- What is becoming increasingly clear is that urgent, because without income security, food load. This takes the form of calculating usage, ing us all vulnerable to contagion. There is an the market and the virus are tightly bound, and basic necessities, people will not be able to forgoing a bath or a cup of tea, and engaging opportunity here to focus on solidarity for the threatening a mounting and unprecedented remain safely at home. in time and labour-intensive practices, includ- sake of life. epidemiological and financial crisis. Crisis This economic struggle is compounded by ing the use of rudimentary infrastructures for While the future is uncertain, I would like itself can be understood as a disruption of the living conditions of those living in infor- greywater collection and reuse. to suggest that in the darkness, there are glim- normalised conditions of existence. This is mal settlements and other inadequate housing Furthermore, in households with free-flow mers of hope. One hopeful movement is the fundamentally unsettling, but also arguably conditions. As argued by Professor Diana Mit- connections, water debt is a constant source of advancement of a Programme of Action by revelatory of the contradictions latent in our lin of the Global Development Institute at the anxiety, with the fear of eviction for those liv- civil society groupings that I have already re- existing systems and, in a more hopeful regis- University of Manchester: “The global spread ing in state housing. Here, the concern of the ferred to above. Another is the emergence in ter, pregnant with possibility. of Covid-19 poses particular risks for the one municipality to remain financially resilient cities across the world, of mutual aid groups Covid-19, in a few short months, has been billion people living in informal settlements in is translating into household indebtedness or concerned to focus on social solidarity in the remarkably revealing of the ways in which na- the global South.” disconnection. With the onset of the Covid-19 time of physical distancing. ture, economics, politics and social reproduc- These settlements are a feature of southern pandemic, it is no longer possible to deny or In Cape Town, the group Cape Town To- tion (or destruction), are tightly bound, and urbanism and are defined materially by high normalise the more sustained “Day Zero” of gether has been particularly instrumental in mutually constituted. As Marxist geographers levels of income insecurity, residential density, the marginalised. As lockdown drew closer, supporting the mushrooming of Community have long argued, there is nothing natural incrementally constructed neighbourhoods, on 25 March 2020, about 40 people picketed Action Networks (CANs) across the city, pro- about a disaster. In the contemporary mo- peripheral location and poor service delivery. outside the Civic Centre to highlight this strug- viding community support for the most vul- ment, the existing relations centralise profit Social distancing is near impossible in crowd- gle, demanding that the City of Cape Town nerable during isolation. over care for people and planet. The climate ed informal settlements. Dozens of developing immediately ensure that emergency water be In a city as unequal as Cape Town, the emer- crisis has already increased awareness of the countries have ordered lockdowns, but how made available to those living in informal set- gence of “CAN pairings”, connecting groups ways in which capitalism is destroying Earth’s can these be enforced when the choice is be- tlements. across neighbourhoods to share and distrib- liveability, extracting from and treating the tween life and livelihoods (which amounts to The protesters are part of the Khayelitsha ute resources, really begins to open up pos- Earth as a dumping site. the same thing). As some have already sug- Community Action Network (CAN) and were sibilities for a more interconnected and just However, in contrast to the slow violence gested, if Covid-19 doesn’t kill them first, hun- met by Mayoral Committee Member for Infor- city. Whether such groups will survive beyond of climate change, Covid-19 has introduced a ger will. mal Settlements, Water and Waste, Xanthea Covid-19 remains to be seen. temporal urgency by bringing forth the more The South African government appears to Limberg. According to reports from protest- Now more than ever, the intricate machin- immediate presence of death and destruction. recognise that people living in poorly serviced ers, very little clarity was provided by Limberg ery — drawing on bodies, minds, infrastruc- Nature’s acting is insisting that we recognise and crowded housing conditions are particu- regarding city plans to provide emergency wa- ture, institutions and a mobilisation of nature the virulence of capitalism now, not later. At larly vulnerable in the pandemic. In response, ter. However, by 26 March, the city delivered — necessary to keep the system moving, is vis- the same time, there are powerful and hopeful the plan announced by the Human Settle- a first run of tankers to the most urgent infor- ible, as is the fragility of it all. Perhaps nature reminders, in the political and social respons- ments, Water and Sanitation Minister Lindiwe mal settlements. The delivery was celebrated is trying to teach us all a vital lesson about the es that Covid-19 has hastened, that economic Sisulu on 24 March, includes a process of “de- as progress influenced by the work and pro- importance of constructing alternative value systems are, in fact, contingent on and always densification” and the provision of basic ser- test action of the Khayelitsha CAN as well as systems that prioritise solidarity with people open to remaking. This supports arguments vices, including water and sanitation, to identi- support and solidarity from other CANs across and planet over the commodification of eve- long made by critical feminist scholars that, fied sites with the greatest need. the city, pushing the municipality to respond rything. in contrast to an appearance of coherence, the However, these measures are questionable quicker. As argued by David Harvey, we have been existing social order is fragile, always in the at the very least. In the case of de-densification, These shifts are both encouraging and vital. socialised to behave as good neoliberal sub- making and thereby open to remaking. concerns have been raised that the crisis may However, what the above discussion makes jects, “but even good neoliberal subjects can be abused to support mass evictions and that clear is that the current crisis is located within see that there is something wrong with the The South African response to Covid-19: legitimate opposition will be crushed through a historical process that has produced highly way this pandemic is being responded to”. Placing the urban poor at the frontline of militarised and authoritarian responses. The differentiated lines of access. Municipalities We are told that the solution is to “wash your the pandemic? second point is that a more sustained response across the country have been very slow to act, hands”. But this singular focus on hygiene ig- In South Africa, the rate of documented infec- to poor housing conditions and service deliv- and so as the virus spreads, water-stressed nores the political ecology into which the virus tions has risen to over 1,000 in just a few weeks, ery has been a very long time coming, and we communities are going to be at far higher risk. is inserted. Instead, we should also be focusing with the first recorded death reported on 27 will pay a high price for this slow (in)action. These are not only people living in informal on instituting the more fundamental condi- March 2020, the same morning that South The case of the Cape Town water crisis is par- settlements, but also include backyard dwell- tions necessary to stop the spread of the virus, Africans awoke to Day One of a nationwide ticularly illustrative and I will discuss it briefly ers, and those in formal housing with WMDs including ensuring income security, access to 21-day lockdown. The lockdown, announced here. or mounting debt, as well as rural communi- food and basic services, decent housing condi- by President Cyril Ramaphosa on 23 March, is ties. As suggested by Richard Poplak in Daily tions, and a challenge to household indebted- an attempt to curb the spread of the virus and Rethinking crisis response: Drawing les- Maverick, referring to both housing and ser- ness. — DM has been accompanied by a range of economic sons from the Cape Town water crisis vice delivery failures: “According to epidemiol- policy measures to mitigate the economic fall- In work that I’ve carried out with my colleague ogists, the coronavirus pandemic was inevita- l Dr Suraya Scheba is a lecturer in the En- out for firms, workers and households. and collaborator, Dr Nate Millington, we have ble. Informal settlements were not. By failing vironmental and Geographical Sciences De- The measures include the establishment of cautioned against the uncritical celebration to address the latter, the government has po- partment at the University of Cape Town. a Solidarity Fund; contributions from South of Cape Town’s water crisis management ap- tentially massively compounded the former. She is interested in examining the political African billionaires, the Rupert, Oppenheimer proach. Instead, we have argued that the pro- All South Africans will end up worse off for it.” ecology of the city, with a focus on infra- and Motsepe families, totalling R3-billion; nu- moted demand-management interventions, In thinking about Covid-19, the pandemic structural and service delivery inequalities merous tax measures; and the marshalling of that included the remaking of Free Basic Wa- has really brought home the existing inequali- in the context of contemporary capitalist the Unemployment Insurance Fund to support ter (FBW) and a tariff restructuring, threaten ties in our society and threatens to intensify society. She has done work on the politics unemployment. In addition, more than R3-bil- to limit equitable access to water into the fu- them further. As one commentator astutely of water access, urban informality and land lion has been made available to support small, ture. suggested, disparities that have been growing occupations in the city. 16 Big Interview Lesotho Times April 2 - 8 2020

WEEK ago, on 22 March 2020, All Baso- tho Convention (ABC) legislators chose AFinance Minister Moeketsi Majoro (MM) to succeed Prime Minister Thomas Thabane Much needs to be done before when the latter eventually steps down. Dr Majoro polled 26 votes to beat his nearest chal- lenger, ABC chairperson Samuel Rapapa who got 18. Ministers Prince Maliehe (Transport) I can take over: Majoro and Samonyane Ntsekele (Water) polled one vote each. ABC bigwigs including party leader Dr Tha- bane, his estranged deputy Professor Nqosa Mahao and secretary general Lebohang Hlaele all attended and witnessed the voting process. If the Mahao faction’s participation and sub- sequent pledge to rally behind Dr Majoro is anything to go by, then this means the power struggles in the ABC and the acrimonious bat- tles to succeed Dr Thabane might just have come to an end. Dr Thabane is on record saying he will retire at the end of July this year or earlier if his ABC party agrees on a successor. It remains to be seen if Dr Thabane will honour his pledge to relinquish power earlier now that the party’s legislators have unanimously agreed on Dr Majoro and the latter also enjoys the support MOEKETSI Majoro. of the party’s pro-Mahao national executive committee (NEC). The Lesotho Times’ (LT) Senior Reporter Marafaele Mohloboli this week interviewed Dr Majoro who shared his thoughts on his prospects of taking over in the aftermath of his endorsement by the ABC legislators. Despite his election, the soft-spoken minister remains coy and admits that there are several obstacles to be cleared including securing the buy-in of the ABC’s coalition partners before he can finally take over the reins. Below are excerpts of the interview.

LT: It’s been a week since your party chose you to succeed Prime Minister Thomas Tha- bane. Even the Mahao camp has accepted ate colleagues and the ABC’s national execu- as if I am the Prime Minister-designate. Much LT: What would be your priorities upon as- your election and pledged to give you their tive committee simply meant that in the event still has to happen before that point. suming power? full support. Dr Thabane himself publicly of our leader and Prime Minister Thomas Tha- It has been quite a taxing exercise to get stated that he was prepared to step down bane leaving office I will succeed him in the to where we are today and we still have not MM: Lesotho’s future success lies in contain- as soon as his party agrees on a successor. office of the prime minister. reached our destination. This (election) was ing the impact of the Coronavirus. It also lies What is the situation and where does the That is provided that other members of the just a response to the prime minister’s request in the full implementation of the multi-sector nation go from here? current coalition (Basotho National Party, Alli- for us to choose a successor. reforms to restore good governance, ensuring ance of Democrats and Reformed Congress of There is still a lot that has to be done before justice, political stability and re-establishing MM: My election by the ABC’s members of the Lesotho) give their full support to my candida- he (Dr Thabane) leaves office and it is also and sustaining the rule of law. national assembly in the presence of our sen- ture. It is therefore premature to start talking worth noting that the ABC does not constitute Once these have been achieved we can en- the majority in parliament on its own. It is sure economic stability. All these need a con- therefore imperative for us to go back to our certed effort of all involved. There is no justice coalition partners and consult to establish if if it is delayed. Justice brings peace and so we they are still interested in being in partnership should strive to smoothen the path for justice with us. for everyone by reforming and capacitating the judiciary. LT: Are you ready to succeed Dr Thabane? We need to think whether we need to im- port everything we currently import. We need MM: Our party caucus has made its decision to develop strategies to stimulate local pro- on the succession and the prime minister has duction and import substitution. Most of our accepted this decision. When our prime min- youth can be absorbed into formal employ- ister decides it is time for him to go, we will of ment if we focus on local production. course be ready. The agricultural sector needs to move from subsistence to intensive commercial produc- LT: In your view, what are the qualities of a tion taking advantage of Lesotho’s abundant NOTICE OF LOST CONSTITUTIONAL DOCUMENT FOR LESOTHO good leader? water resources. With climate-adapted agri- culture we can reduce our food imports by half OPPORTUNITIES INDUSTRIALIZATION CENTRE (LOIC) MM: Good leaders are those who will show and achieve food security. The transformation you beyond the obvious, and seek to achieve to producing more fruit and vegetables has things. already begun but we need more investment. Good leaders work with zest and enthu- Basotho should be able to make a living siasm to achieve things which many people wherever they live in Lesotho. This means Notice is hereby given that we intend to apply for a certified copy of think are not attainable. we should improve our infrastructure in the countryside and avail the necessary services TH Constitution Document for LOIC registered on the 29 September 1989. All LT: How would you describe yourself? Your to men and women in our villages. background and curriculum vitae? persons having objection to the issue of such copy are hereby requested to LT: What is your take on the widely view MM: I am currently Lesotho’s Finance Minis- that security agencies have been ham- lodge any objection with the registrar of Societies, Government Complex, ter and Member of Parliament for Thetsane strung by political interference and need #33 Constituency. I have been in the public to be freed from the clutches of politicians Maseru within fourteen (14) working days of the last publication of this service since 2000. I previously served as an to enable them to properly fulfil their man- Executive Director at the International Mone- date? Notice. tary Fund from 2008 to 2012. Before that I was Principal Secretary for the MM: Political interference in the security Ministry of Finance from 2004 to 2008, Fiscal agencies is a perennial source of political in- Analyst from 2000 to 2004, Economics Lectur- stability in Lesotho and consequently Leso- st er and Researcher at the National University tho’s inability to grow its economy and reduce Dated 1 April 2020 of Lesotho (NUL) from 1991 to 2000. poverty and hunger. Given its serious reper- I was born in Tsikoane, Leribe many years cussions, political interference has to be seen Lesotho Opportunities Industrialization Centre ago and hold a Ph.D. in Natural Resource Eco- as an illegal activity that should attract severe nomics and Master’s Degree in Agricultural penalties. Behind Lesotho High School Economics both from Washington State Uni- On the other hand, the security agencies versity and a BA in Economics from the Na- should be strictly subject to best practices on Mohalalitoe tional University of Lesotho. civil-military relations. However, the security agencies should un- P.O Box 2542 LT: What inspired you to be a politician? derstand that they are subject to lawful civil- ian authority. MM: In any country you need political pow- Maseru 102 er to make transformational decisions for the LT: Corruption has also been identified as betterment of people’s lives. For the longest a major impediment to socio-economic time my interest has been to be part of a team development. How do you intend to tackle that can help improve the lives of Basotho. corruption when you assume power? I am a firm believer that you exist only in what you do. Therefore, I wanted to be part MM: Corruption is an impediment to econom- of men and women who would make Lesotho ic growth. We tend to develop moral decay great. once we do not have our enforcement agen- cies functioning. This has to change. LesothoLesotho TimesTimes January January 23 16 - 29- 22 2020 2020

BusinessLoti/MajorBusinessLoti/MajorLesotho Times Currencies Currencies April 2 - 8 1 1 2020USD USD = = 14.404 14.480 Maloti Maloti 1 GBP1 GBP = =18.768 18.850 Maloti Maloti1 Euro 1 Euro = 16.063= 15.890 Maloti Maloti 1 Japanese 1 Japanese Yen Yen = 0.131 = 0.130 Maloti Maloti 1 Kenyan 1 Kanyen Shilling Shelling = 0.141= 0.140 Maloti MamothMasianokengLesotho economy unveils willLifestyle opulent suffer from Centre medical lockdown: opens aid economists product March ity said businesses owed by the Meanwhile, LCCI secretary gen- we lose lives, we cannot recover,” Staff Writer Bereng Mpaki centre in their neighbourhood”. government were going to be worst eral Fako Hakane said they were Mr Hakane said. Bereng Mpaki development of the Elite Magenta concerned as there is more in the goody Currently, people living and working in Ma- Medical AidHE government Option, which must does cushion not bag.hit So,by wethe arelockdown. starting off the year by open to assisting small and infor- For his part, economic com- ONSTRUCTION is almost complete for first “The government should pay the mal businesses to survive sianokengthrough andmentator its surroundings Majakathata have toMokuena travel to phaseAMOTH of the Employee Masianokeng Benefi Lifestyle ts discriminateCentre, businesses the frequency against with economic which launching the Elite Magenta product, the Maseru CBD for shopping malls, adding to the a clientT isshocks hospitalised. caused This by isthe because raging becausesuppliers we believeit owes we to havecushion a lot themmore the national lockdown. Thakhisi said the government may a sprawlingthis week new launched shopping a mall com- in the south- already existing traffic congestion. C Coronavirus (Covid-19) that has against the negative impact of the “The rest of the economy is go- have to assist people who may lose prehensive medical aid cover it comes with unlimited hospitalisation to do to provide healthcare access to our Mern outskirts of Maseru. brought businesses to a standstill lockdown,” the economist said. ing to take a knock due to the“The lock positive- income economic as a resultimpact of of the the lockdown. shopping benefi t that will give the client as many people.” whichExpected comes towith start an operatingannual M2, by 7 themil- March this He said this would be worsened down, but the informal centresector isis already “In being 2018 felt parliament by ordinary deliberated Basotho - hospitalisationsby paying its as possiblesuppliers, until analysts they She said the name of the product lionyear, cover the percentre hospitalisation. will serve residents from say.Ma- by the fact that the government more vulnerable as no evenbusiness before itson completion,” a motion forMr Mphanathe establishment said. sianokengThe new and Elite surrounding Magenta medical areas such aid as recover.”Ha-Ma- comeslacks the from capacity one of to theset up company’s a relief can be done when people “Anare estimated at of 120an directunemployment jobs have been insurance created For Theher part, government Mamoth chief currently operations owes corporate colours, magenta, which is a option,tala, Ha-Paki, adds to Ha-Abia, the company’s Ha-’Nelese, existing Makhoakhoeng, suppliers close to M2 billion from fund to support affected business. home,” Mr Hakane said. since the constructionfund (UIF) began and approvedand approximately it. If the offi cer ‘Manthati Phomane said the shade of pink and purple. productsMazenod, namelyLithabaneng Primary, and Standard,Ha-Mapetla amongas far back as the 2018/19 finan- In fact, he said it was “wishful He said the net effect of150 the permanent in- bill jobs had are been anticipated ready, to thenbe created such in a Standardothers. Plus, and Elite. companycial year is striving and the to designanalysts healthcare say busi - thinking”“We started to expect focusing the government on magenta ability of informal tradersthe topost do construction fund would phase be when handy the during centre startstimes TheThe new Masianokeng high-end product, Lifestyle is Shopping suitable Centreproductsnesses is that that compete are owed with for the goods best andin threeto set years up a agorelief to fund. bring out its true any business means theiroperations,” families helike added. this,” Mr Mokuena Thakhisi forowned clients by with Lesego non- Holdings communicable — a consortium and the of servicesindustry Ba- whileoffered creating to the value government for the meaningInstead, as a hetransformationery sees the government colour; will not have any food duringThe the project said. also sourced services like engineer- oftensotho chronicbusinesses, illness among who them need Sam their Mphana clients. willand be the worst hit. a colourapproaching that aids its harmony international and balance part- 21 day lockdown. ing, architecturalThe design, November quantity surveying,2018 motion, prop- high‘Matokelo health Seturumane. costs taken care of. “TodayThis isafter another the country opportunity this week to inners every to intervene. aspect of life, physically, “We are willing to assist informalerty development which and was various moved consulting by Mosalemane services TheThe current product construction comes with work benefi is the ts firstcontinue phasewent changinginto lockdown the narrative to keep as far asthe mentally,Another emotionally LCCI economist and spiritually. said the traders by setting up a fundcreating to sup further- legislator employment Sam in Rapapa,the value chain.is now likeof the unlimited two phased hospitalisation development. access in localCoronavirus businesses are at concerned.bay. We are a government“As we are in thecan healthcare also assist sector, the pri we- port those who are strugglingNedbank in the managingawaiting thedirector drafting Nkau of Matete a bill. said Mr Mokuena Thakhisi also said privateThe hospitals4 650 m both2 shopping in and centreoutside is the located growing alongAlthough local brand Lesotho and we is yetare workingto record arevate ensuring sector that by weoffering provide a healthcaredegree of prevailing environment. Wetheir want involvement was proof of their commitment amnesty on obligations like taxes to do this in collaboration with the the Central Bank of Lesotho’s (CBL) country.the Main South I Road, which links the Maseruhard Cityany to cases, ensure Prime that Minister we represent Thomas access to our members to ensure that to uplifting Lesotho’s economy. BasothoThabane businesses recently well. announced a na- theirand mental bills like and water physical and electricity. health is in government. decision to reduce the CBL rate CentreIt also with has Roma, an annualMorija, Moshoeshoe M20 000 I Interna- “For instance, the government “We can obtain their statistics“Nedbank’s by participation one percent in thewas project not enough is an in to- allowancetional Airport for and chronic other southern medication; districts outside“Wetional are lockdown professionals starting and weMonday are order. dication of its commitment to uplifting Lesotho’s just until as good 21 April as the2020. big international can“Magenta give alsothe promotesprivate sector compassion, a tax from their associations such as mitigate the economic impact of accessMaseru. to both vehicle and helicopter ARTIST impression of the Masianokeng Lifestyle Shopping Centre economy throughCOVID-19. support to local entrepreneurs brandsOnly that businesses operate in that Lesotho. are classi It is - supportholiday and until kindness they have and encourages recovered,” a Khathang Tema Baitšokoli which ambulancesAmong the among anchor other tenants benefi arets. grocery retailer she said. we can use to estimate howand much improving “Thethe quality CBL’s ofresponse life of Basotho,” does Mrnot timefied that Basothoas essential recognise services the good will con- sense of self-respect and contentment in Pick“We n havePay and come hardware to understand provider Cashbuild. that tinue insuranceoperating. brokers Among in thethem country are whichShe opened also said in despitemuch-needed its financial convenience each for would shoppers need from on athe daily Matete basis said.to make a difference as it is similar to the The best project approach is funded to healthcare by Nedbank is to Lesotho work tothat 2006.local entrepreneurs The company do offers by not insurance thosechallenges, whoproducts use some it.as It areacan active assistand private itsambitions surroundings,” sec- survive Ms Seturumaneduring the lockdown. said The secondthat phase effected comprising in South of the Africa. Motor CityThis onlygrocery seeing usstores; worthy health as a and sustainable pharma - and desire to become reality,” Phomane combinethe tune of either M54 million therapeutic and is expected surgery to openceuticals; its well banks; as risk analysiswater and and energy; management. tor playersIt employs can stillthis week.chip in by pro- “While we appreciate theis already nega- beingdecision planned. was Just made like thein Shoppingline with business but being up there as viable said. ordoors pharmacotherapy in March 2020. with lifestyle selectedsixteen government (16) Basotho departments; nationals. viding relief to consumersShe added who that are “over time,tive impactit should the have lockdown a pos- Centre, is likely the Motorbeing Citywithin is expected the same to create common and modifiMs cation,Seturumane, to maximise the majority the health shareholder businessanimal partner Likewise,food; media; especially Mr Mphana agriculture; in has the many alsobusinessMamoth feeling inter Employee the- pinch.itive impact Benefi ts on is the a currentto have traffic on thecongestion economy, in sustain taking jobs monetaryin the economy area whileCMA contributingwith South outcomesthrough Thaba-Bosiu of our clients,” Risk BothaSolutions, Tiheli, is a successfulhealthcare ests sector. in Lesotho, including the firstsubsidiary Pick“Some n Pay of storethecompanies Mamoth Maseru Group, maycentral whichwant business measures district as to more save people fromto the COV development- Africa and and not enhancement necessarily toof cushMa-- THOMAS mortuary and petroleum services. Mamoth’sMosotho business business woman development in her own right. “WeThaAn -have ineconomist Maserua new product which from opened andthe weLesotho its are doors is in toa 2009. locally reduce owned some companyfrom of Masianokengtheir founded service in and ID-19surrounding is a noble areas gesture choose by sianokeng the gov- asion a regional against node the andnegative providing impacts new managerba-BosiuThabane. said. Risk Solutions ranks among the topexcited threeChamber about“Masianokeng it.of We Commerce will be sharingLifestyle and Indus a lotCentre - 2003. willcharges Thecreate groupjust the as also ato fewoperates stay have and Mamothe shop already in the mosternment. convenient Businesses shopping can services always within of aCOVID single space-19 on to the improve economy,” lives. Mr “This serves as a motivation for the of informationtry (LCCI) aswho far aspreferred new products anonym are - Funeralstarted.” Services as its subsidiary. recover‘MANTHATI after Phomane.the pandemic but if Mokuena Thakhisi said.

NEW HOURS, Call for Applications Help Lesotho alumni are invited to a reunion SAME EXCELLENT SERVICE to celebrate and share success! Youth LeadersCOVID-19-in-Training LOCKDOWN Program Kindly note that we have reviewed the opening hours of our banking premises for the period of the nationwide NOTICE lockdown due to COVID – 19. Help Lesotho’s Leaders-in-Training (LIT) Program graduates are strong, REUNION 2020 resilient critical thinkers who become peer-to-peer agents of change in their Services will be available from 9am to 3pm during the communities. Participants receive life skills, leadership training, psychosocial week, and from 9am to 12pm on Saturdays effective support and professional development. NOTICELEADERS NEVER GIVE UP! 1 April 2020. Remember that you can continue to transact 24 hours a day via digital channels such as Internet Banking Program dates: 25th February to 3rd April 2020 (6 weeks) and Standard Bank app, data-free as a Vodacom subscriber, Location: Hlotse, Leribe* – Help Lesotho Seotlong CentreThe ATM locatedas well as at Mobile Nutri Banking. Foods Building at Khubetsoana has been fully operational from Selection criteria: Our Business Banking clients can also transact 24 hours a day via  Be between the ages of 18-27 years; 22 January 2020digital channels. We suchthank as Business you Onlinefor your and Enterprise patience Online.  Minimum qualification of COSC/LGSCE;  Strong desire to become a role model andduring lead by example; the period ATM deposits of disruption. and bulk Cash Deposit Machines are also available  Fluent in written and oral English and Sesotho. during this period.

*Candidates who make their own arrangements to stay in Hlotse to attend theWe thank you for your understanding in this regard, and regret any training are encouraged to apply. Note that noFor financial more support willinformation, be provided.inconvenience causedcontact by these the changes. Customer Contact Centre (CCC) on +266 2221 2221 or 8002 2221 toll free. TO APPLY: For more information please contact your Relationship Manager, or call our 1. Request an application form by email and submit the completed24/7 Customer ContactSaturday, Centre on 2221 February2221 or 8002 2221 toll-free.15, 2020 form through [email protected]; OR 2. Obtain a hard copy of the application form and submitIpoloke in person #FightCovid-19 at: Help Lesotho Seotlong Centre, Hlotse  HL Seotlong Centre in Hlotse (next to Linare Football Pitch)  HL Seotlong Centre in Pitseng (Ha Raphoka) HL Alumni Programs: CSP, Leadership Camp, LIT/YAH/HLYDL,  HL office in Maseru (Lenyora House, opposite Palace of Justice) St. Mary’s, Computers and Life Skills, Young Mothers, Deadline for submission: Friday 31st January 2020 YES/Anti-AIDS Clubs, BGLC Ts & Cs apply. Ts & Cs apply. Help Lesotho StandarReuniond Lesotho 2020 Bank – @StandardLSBank Standard Lesotho Bank Moving Forward*O is a nlytrademark those of Theselected Standard will Bank beof South contacted. Africa Limited. StandardLesothoBank @StandardLSBank @S+266tanda r51968466d Lesotho Bank Leaders Never Give Up!

18 Business Lesotho Times April 2 - 8 2020

Company registration Ministry on the lookout services suspended for price inflation Bereng Mpaki HE government has suspend- ed all company registration Tservices due to the Coronavi- rus (Covid-19) induced lockdown Bereng Mpaki which started Monday and ends on 21 April 2020. RADE and Industry minister The majority of government de- Halebonoe Setšabi says the partments have stopped their nor- Tgovernment will descend heav- mal operations while only left skel- ily on businesses that inflate prices eton staff has been retained for es- during the ongoing three-week na- sential services. tional lockdown. This follows the announcement Mr Setšabi said this in an interview of a three-week national down by with the Lesotho Times this week. He Prime Minister Thomas Thabane said although they were yet to en- in an attempt to curb the spread of counter such cases, they would not the coronavirus that has so far killed hesitate to punish the businesses. five people and infected over 1 300 Lesotho is currently on a three- others in neighbouring South Africa. week long lockdown until 21 April “We have suspended traders li- 2020 induced by the coronavirus censes registration and renewals (Covid-19) outbreak. Although Le- services until further notice,” minis- sotho is yet to record any cases, the ter Halebonoe Setšabi told the Leso- government is on high alert with tho Times this week. the country’s neighbour and biggest He also said any penalties that may trading partner, South Africa having arise as a result of the suspension of recorded over 1 300 cases and five these services during the lockdown deaths. period would be waivered. Only essential services will con- “Businesses that would have to tinue running during the lockdown pay any fees during this time would among them, grocery stores; health not be charged penalties.” and pharmaceuticals; banks; water The minister also emphasised the and energy; selected government de- need for providers of non-essential partments; animal feeds; media; ag- service to close down. riculture; mortuaries and petroleum “Following the declaration of a services. lockdown in the wake of the out- In the build up to the lockdown, break of COVID-19 by the Prime the public scrambled to stock grocer- Minister; the Ministry of Trade and ies resulting in panic buying. Industry has identified businesses Businesses became overwhelmed which will continue operating dur- and there were some unconfirmed ing the lockdown. reports of some retailers inflating “We recognise that all businesses prices. And Mr Setšabi says they will are essential; but under the prevail- not hesitate to punish anyone caught ing situation where the world is on the wrong side. fighting Covid-19, the ministry rec- “We are yet to come across a ommends that the following busi- known case where a trader has nesses continue operating as nor- clearly increased their prices be- mal. yond the normal levels,” Mr Setšabi HALEBONOE Setšabi. “These are businesses which pro- said. vide essential services; food retail- “We will not hesitate to take meas- ers; pharmacies; fuel (coal, wood, ures on any business that will be gas, paraffin); petroleum oil (petrol found inflating prices.” and diesel); water; mortuaries and He appealed to the public to report other related services; banks; farm any businesses they find inflating feeds. prices. He said it is not helpful for “Businesses that do not appear on people to talk on social media with- the list, should remain closed during out naming the businesses dealer tions to weed out businesses that “Deliberately inflating prices For his part, Health minister the lockdown. While those that will and the prices that have been in- are inflating prices.” at this point would be unfair to Nkaku Kabi on Sunday said oper- be operating, are expected to open flated. Consumer Protection Associa- consumers as many are facing ators who would open their busi- between 8am to 4pm from Monday “The public can be helpful by dis- tion (CPA) executive director Nka- the prospect of reduced income nesses when they are not classi- to Friday, except for mortuaries, ga- closing the names of the perpetra- reng Letsie said while they were because they are not working. fied as essential services would be rages and pharmacies among a few tors and clearly show how the prices yet to record any cases of price in- Consumers do not need another fined M10 000. others which operate 24 hours daily. have been increased. flation, it was important for con- burden added to their already “We further recommend the busi- “We are also considering deploy- sumers to be vigilant and report compromised buying power,” Mr nesses to comply to the Ministry of ing ministry staff to join the police any suspected cases. Letsie said. Health and World Health Organisa- and army in carrying out inspec- tion (WHO) guidelines,” the ministry said in a statement. Businesses urged to observe safety measures

Bereng Mpaki “The management of the NECC strongly from 6am to 10am and 3pm to 6pm. The appeals to bank authorities to ensure that passenger load also applies to private ve- HE National Emergency Command social distancing and other safety meas- hicles.” Centre (NECC) has warned business ures prescribed by WHO are observed Meanwhile, the NECC also reminded the Toperators who are currently open accordingly in all banking halls. The same reminded public that movement across during the coronavirus (Covid-19) to en- applies to supermarkets and other essen- the borders is restricted to persons trans- sure that their staff have access to safety tial services providers.” porting essential goods and services only. materials like sanitisers or risk being He also recommended proper use of “The government has found it neces- closed down. masks and gloves as wrong usage could sary to take these decisive steps to ask peo- The centre’s head of information and increase the spread of the virus. ple to direct people to stay at home and to communications, Abeloang Ramakhula, “Some businesses have so far failed to observe social distancing as the only op- this week told the Lesotho Times that busi- comply with the prescribed measures for tion to save. ness operators were failing to observe their staff and customers. “The lockdown is not meant to punish the safety protocols as prescribed by the “Any business found contravening the people but to minimise chances of infec- World Health Organisation (WHO). prescribed safety measures will be closed tion with Coronavirus… He said it was worrying that people still down forthwith. “The public is encouraged to be vigilant queue in large numbers at the ATMs. “We are working to save lives and we and maintain safety protocols to minimise “Some businesses do not take precau- cannot afford any compromises. The the spread of the virus that is, wash hands tionary safety measures such as observing NECC reminds public transport operators with soap and running water, observe social distancing and providing sanitisers to strictly observe the following passenger coughing and sneezing etiquette and fol- for their staff and customers,” said Mr loads. It’s 2+1 for 4+1 taxis and 9 + 1 for low quarantine measures,” Mr Ramakhu- CONSUMERS queue outside a retail store in Maseru. Ramakhula. mini-buses which are expected to operate la said. WeekenderMarch 26 - April 1 2020 Lesotho Times Advertisement 19 Lesotho Times April 2 - 8 2020 Tgee Modeling Agency fuses fashion, film E2

Nthatuoa Koeshe established and I am hoping this will help them focus on produc- USIC producer and en- ing better quality music com- trepreneur, Sechaba “Sir pared to what we have been see- MSchaba” Moqoko, says lo- ing over the years.” cal artistes should use the current He said while most artistes pre- Coronavirus induced lockdown fer distributing their music for Perfect your to start investing in their craft to free thinking this would in turn ensure that it is good enough to increase their bookings, this has sell online. failed to work over several years. Sir Schaba told the Weekender “Throughout the lockdown, this week that artistes who solely our creative industry will be depend on performances for in- one of the most affected indus- come will be some of the most tries because all gigs have been craft and sell cancelled. Imagine what would affected as the majority of events have been cancelled. happen to artiste and deejays Sir Schaba launched the coun- who solely depend on the in- try’s first online music shop,YME come from performances if the Tunes, last year. YME Tunes is lockdown would go in for six tailor-made for the Lesotho mar- months.” music online - ket and Sir Schaba says if artistes He said YME Tunes is tailor start selling their music online, made to make it easier for Baso- then they can entertain hopes of tho to purchase their favourite raking in money in the long run. music through Mpesa and Eco- “I believe this is time for our cash to cater for those who may musicians to start considering not have Mastercards. digital platforms as a source of “It was obvious that not every musicians told income because people listen to Mosotho has a debit or credit and stream music online even card which other international during the prevailing condi- music platforms use as payment tions,” Sir Schaba said. gateways hence YME Tunes is “I have been advocating for tailor made ideally for Basotho artistes to sell their music online who use Mpesa and Ecocash,” Sir whether they are upcoming or Schaba said. 130320202 Met (7E) Newspaper print 20x182.pdf 1 3/25/2020 10:32:08 AM SECHABA “Sir Schaba” Moqoko.

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Nthatuoa Koeshe

GEE Modeling Agency will soon release the fi rst of its Fashion Tgee Modeling Agency TFilms Blast Off fi lm to promote local designers. The fi rst fashion fi lm will show- case Avant Cee Elle designs by Ka- belo Lichaba. Thato Fonya, the Tgee Modeling Agency manager told the Weekender this week that the fi rst fi lm would be fuses fashion, fi lm released once the Coronavirus (Cov- id-19) lockdown ends. Lesotho is currently on a three- week long lockdown which ends on 21 April to avoid the spread of the Coronavirus. Although Lesotho is yet to report any cases, Lesotho remains on high alert due to the high number of infections in neighbouring South Africa. So far, the disease has killed fi ve people in South Africa while over 1 300 cases have been reported. Fonya said the fi lms are meant to help designers and models build their portfolios so that they pene- trate the international market. Fashion fi lms are increasingly popular as more designers depart from using magazines that only cater for a few elite designers while fi lms also reach larger audiences due to the advent of social media channels. Fonya said they will also be shoot- ing fi lms of other designs such as Africa Rose, Jay Designs, Cograbig, Lush Lush Lifestyle and Robert Nko- so designs. “We have decided to collaborate with fashion designers to help build their portfolios while at the same time building the portfolios of the Tgee Models and Sotho Kids Models,” Thato said. “The fi lms will showcase a compi- lation of designs from different de- signers along with their look books.” Fonya since the local fashion in- dustry is still in its infancy, they embarked onto the project to show potential markets in and outside the country the good work that Lesotho designers are doing. “Fashion designers and brands are always searching for new ways to showcase their designs and build a loyal audiences and Tgee Modeling Agency believes that through fi lm, brands, designers, photographers and videographers can effectively communicate their crafts to a wider audience. Film is also one of the fast- est growing area of visual represen- tation in fashion.” Lichaba creates garments that in- corporate modern and traditional fabrics to come up with striking and elegant looks. Avant Cee Elle merges contempo- rary styles with traditional textiles to promote African cultures. Her de- signs are for men and women of all shapes and sizes and also teenagers. The Avant Cee Elle fi lm was shot on 21 March 2020 at Lekhalong-la- Baroa and Fonya hopes to submit it to international fashion television SOME of the designs from Avant Cee Elle. stations. Maphorisa declines 20/20 battle against Prince Kaybee

J Maphorisa has declined calls to producer suggested that several of join an online challenge called Prince Kaybee’s hit singles were because D“The Best 20/20 Battle” against of TNS. Prince Kaybee. DJ Maphorisa then went on to claim As most of the world has gone on lock- that he had already won the battle down, staying entertained has become against the “Fetch Your Life” hitmaker. diffi cult. “Eh, I won that battle already, please Due to the overwhelming, people have don’t try me.” turned to social media now more than Although Prince Kaybee did not get ever to be entertained, even celebrities. involved, one half of the Scorpion Kings International and local celebrities poked fun at the “Banomoya” hitmaker have all been going live to speak to and saying he should produce a song with- entertain their followers. out TNS as he wanted to see what would While American songwriters and pro- happen. ducers such as The Dream and Ne-Yo This is not the fi rst time that the “Nana hopped onto the viral “20/20 Challenge” Thula” hitmaker has “picked” a fi ght where they battled it out to see who had with Kaybee. the best hits, one particular South Afri- A month ago, DJ Maphorisa took aim can producer has rejected it. at Prince Kaybee for not owning the DJ Maphorisa declined a suggestion by masters to his music after he made an a Twitter user to host “The Best 20/20 Bat- example on the importance of musicians tle” with none other than Prince Kaybee. owning their own master recordings. DJ Prince Kaybee (left) and TNS. In his reply to the user, the “Lorch” — IOL DJ Maphorisa. Property Lesotho Times April 2 - 8 2020

HE current spread of coronavi- rus (COVID-19) and the efforts Tto contain it have impacted al- most all aspects of daily life — and What you should know about real estate transactions are no dif- ferent. The current lockdown bans non-essential interactions with clients, which means that selling selling your home under lockdown a home will look different than in years past. The lock-down effective- ly prevents viewings with potential buyers and physically introducing ment in particular, which means normalised market, you are ready to them to properties. that major disruptions in other sec- show your home.” For now, Show Houses will be a tors will impact the property mar- The property market tends to be a thing of the past. ket". more resilient investment type than "We expect the deeds offi ce to be Regional Director and CEO of RE/ most. It is however by no means im- closed during the lock-down! This MAX of Southern Africa, Adrian mune to major disruptions in the means, for now, in all likelihood Goslett says, "If you do decide to go economy, and it remains to be seen property transfers will be delayed ahead with a sale, buyers will have how much this will affect our mar- until further notice," says Antonie to sign the OTP with a suspensive ket. Goosen, Founder and Managing Di- condition that stipulates that the "We are in unchartered territory rector of Meridian Realty. transfer will only go ahead once it and some speculate that it may take "Less motivated buyers and po- has passed a home inspection." a few months to stabilize, where oth- tential tenants will decide to rather “By leveraging technology, there ers reckon, we should prepare for up postpone their property hunting un- are still ways for real estate agents to to two years for the pandemic to play til after the crisis, or to only engage interact with listing clients and po- out. Truthfully, at this point nobody with properties that are highly at- tential buyers,” says Goslett. knows for sure. What is certain is tractive to them. To start, many home tours will be- that we are in for very tough times "Similarly, sellers that are not come virtual. But, as technology has in the short to medium term," says highly motivated to sell may decide progressed, this is not entirely some- so that the buyers can ask questions “If you can get your hands on Goosen. to withdraw their property from the thing new and has already been about the property as the homeown- some hardware supplies, start do- "Currently there are a lot of factors market until a later stage. On the used as a powerful tool in marketing er walks through the home,” says ing touch-ups around the house, like out of your control, so it is important other end we will likely see new in- a home for some time now. But ulti- Goslett. painting over scuff marks or fi xing to shift your focus on the things that ventory due to the fi nancial diffi cul- mately prospecting new buyers will broken door hinges. You could also you can control. There will undoubt- ties people will face as a result of this be tricky over this time. 'Or wait until the crisis passes' begin packing your personal belong- edly be opportunity in this market. crisis," says Goosen. “However, this does not have to For those who would rather wait ings into boxes to be stored in your However, it is vital to realize that the What remains clear during this take the shape of an expensive vir- until this crisis passes before listing garage or some other unused space. playing fi eld has changed drastically Covid-19 lockdown is that the real tual tour video, professionally shot their home, Goslett explains that Spending time getting your outdoor and that you will have to adapt like estate market will be "affected by with high-end equipment. Agents there are things that can be done area cleaned up and landscaping never before in order to ride out this the health of the economy, consumer can brief homeowners on how to while we’re being asked to stay prepared will also prove useful. That massive storm successfully." confi dence, and levels of employ- conduct a video call over WhatsApp home. way, as soon as we return to a more — Property24

COMPANY NOTICE NOTICE OF VOLUNTARY DISSOLUTION OF COMPANY

THIS ADVERTISEMENTDEKRA LESOTHO SERVES (PTY) LTD NOTICE THAT, Registration Number: 51748 (“the company”) BUILDING ENERGY CONCESSION LESOTHO (PTY) LTD – REG. KINDLY TAKE NOTICE THAT, the Company herebyNO requests 52413 persons with claims against the dissolving Company to present their claims in accordance with Section 167 (5) of the Companies Act.

PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE THAT the claims must be submitted to Webber Newdigate Attorneys, 2nd Floor, MetropolitanINTENDS Life Building, TO Kingsway DEREGISTER Road, Maseru, for AND the attention CEASE of Mr. N. Fraser.ALL OPERATIONS IN LESOTHO The claims must state the name of the claimant, the claimant’s contact details and full particulars of the claim supported by documents proving the claim. FOR ENQUIRIES PLEASE CONTACT: These claims must be submitted on or before the 30th June 2020, failing which, claims against the dissolving Company shallMORNÉ be barred MAREE/ unless proceedingsPEARL to enforceBEDHASIE the claims are commenced within 1 (one) year after the publication date of thisWEBBER notice. NEWDIGATE ATTORNEYS TEL: 2231 3916 / 2231 5811 CONTACT DETAILS FAX: 2231 0066 MR NEIL FRASER WEBBER NEWDIGATE TEL:2ND 2231 FLOOR 3916 / 2231 5811 FAX:METROPOLITAN 2231 0066 LIFE BUILDING 2NDKINGSWAY FLOOR METROPOLITAN BUILDING KINGSWAYMASERU MASERULESOTHO LESOTHO

NOTICE OF VOLUNTARY DISSOLUTION OF COMPANY LEHAKOE RECREATIONCOMPANY AND CULTURAL NOTICE CENTRE (PTY) LTD Registration Number 2014/1289 THIS ADVERTISEMENT(“the Company”) SERVES NOTICE THAT,

KINDLY TAKE NOTICE THAT, the Company hereby requests persons with claims against the dissolving Company to presentBUILDING their claims in ENERGY accordance with CONCESSION Section 167 (5) of the Companies LESOTHO Act. (PTY) LTD – REG. NO 52413 PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE THAT the claims must be submitted to Webber Newdigate Attorneys, 2nd Floor, Metropolitan Life Building, Kingsway Road, Maseru, for the attention of Mr. N. Fraser. INTENDS TO DEREGISTER AND CEASE ALL OPERATIONS IN The claims must state the name of the claimant, the claimant’s contact details and full particulars of the claim supported by documents proving the claim. LESOTHO

TheseFOR claims ENQUIRIES must be submitted PLEASE on or before CONTACT: the 30th June 2020, failing which, claims against the dissolving Company shallMORNÉ be barred MAREE/ unless proceedingsPEARL to enforceBEDHASIE the claims are commenced within 1 (one) year after the publication date of this notice. WEBBER NEWDIGATE ATTORNEYS CONTACTTEL: DETAILS2231 3916 / 2231 5811 MRFAX: NEIL FRASER2231 0066 WEBBER NEWDIGATE TEL: 2231 3916 / 2231 5811 FAX:2ND 2231 FLOOR 0066 2NDMETROPOLITAN FLOOR LIFE BUILDING METROPOLITANKINGSWAY BUILDING KINGSWAYMASERU MASERU LESOTHOLESOTHO

24 Puzzles Lesotho Times April 2 - 8 2020

Cryptic Crossword Last Week Solution

Across creature’s vital organs (6) 1 Loud singer drowning middle of soprano’s debut in Yerma (6) Down 4 Female returning contraceptive 1 Plant mid-July in scrubland (7) gets rash (6) 2 Gas found in Norway under 9 Robbery by British convict (4) Jason’s ship (5) 10 Share of permit curtailed 3 Fall for a bird (7) action abroad (10) 5 Add to account about European 11 Note enclosed in letter found uprising (6) by large stream (6) 6 Important church described by 12 Sweden’s ruler losing new Catholic Herald collapsed after a letter for a window-cleaner (8) time (9) 13 Conservative husband and wife 7 Planned programme in favour of prepared to meet well-informed Jung’s initial shock treatment (7) cabinet member (5,4) 8 Baked dish containing cut of 15 Fool’s endless foolish talk (4) beef and hard pate mixture is only 16 Faith leader shot close to a very brief hit (5,2,3,3) synagogue (4) 14 Sensible partner once getting 17 Tonic in US mixed with last of exercise and new addition to finest malt (9) weight loss plan (9) 21 Chemist originally sold new 16 Media coverage of old women’s mineral for facial blemish (4,4) skill (7) 22 Bad start to card game (6) 18 Knife for staff eating the 24 Rascal went back on a promise bananas (7) about boiling tea (10) 19 Figures in new colours (7) 25 Elected leader leaving topic for 20 Sailor’s father setter listened discussion to the others (4) to (6) 26 Doctor tries to pinch bottom 23 Extreme vessel caught out (5) of overweight model (6) 27 Beasts devouring last of

Andy Capp Hagar the Horrible

Quick Crossword Last Week Solution

Across Down 1 Autocrat (8) 1 Period after sunset 5 Vulgar and tasteless (4) (4) 2 Frankness (7) 9 Scorch (5) 3 Wondrous (3-9) 10 Saltwater lake in the 4 Lots and lots (6) Jordan valley (4,3) 6 Fire-raising (5) 11 Male singing voice 7 Very bad (8) (12) 8 To an uncommon 13 Sudden and degree (12) unexpected (6) 12 Chief support (8) 14 Shrewdness (6) 15 Eye make-up (7) 17 Still (12) 16 Sculptor’s tool (6) 20 News (7) 18 Spirit used in a 21 Poised for action (5) Bloody Mary (5) 22 Chinese currency (4) 19 Embankment to 23 Take no risks (4,4) prevent flooding (4)

Sudoku Last Week Solution

How to solve

Fill in the grid so that every row, every column and every 3x3 grid contains the digits from 1 to 9 with no repeats. April 2 - 8 2020 Lesotho Times Advertisement 25 26 Markets Lesotho Times April 2 - 8 2020 Should stock markets close until the covid-19 crisis eases?

Leonard Nyambuya ing promised and some being undertaken halt, however it continued its slide to fall 12 have sustainably failed to stabilise markets, percent. ITH each passing day in the corona- and stem the markets’ free fall it might push Another reason not to close markets is be- virus crisis, as stock markets appear market authorities to close markets. In devel- cause it would prevent their basic function. It Wto fall incessantly, it is increasingly oped markets, shutting markets just like ban- is critically important that markets continue being asked whether it would not be better ning short-selling and market circuit-breakers to operate and that investors continue to be for them to close. On the face of it, the idea has only have symbolic consequences rather than able to express themselves in the markets. It attractions. However, markets do not create any meaningful impact. It does not solve the is important to note that markets exist to give pandemics or epidemics they reflect shifts in underlying problem. Currently, the coronavi- companies access to capital, particularly those the economy. rus is ravaging economies as a result of social Similarly, markets such as the equities, and working on this virus. Having access to capi- Last week circuit breakers were kicked in distancing, staying home, and economic activ- the futures markets are highly connected. It tal on a ready basis is critically important for several times, when for example an index ity weakens considerably. In most cases stocks would make little sense to close one and not companies to fund their capital expenditure, falls below a certain level. These temporarily consistently underperform during the whole the other. That connectedness operates across so from that perspective it is important for suspend trading in order to dampen volatility period the ban in effect. This suggests that the all financial asset classes. So any suspension capital markets to remain open even during and prevent panic selling. Usually the length ban did not provide much an artificial boost of stock markets would have to involve a co- trying times like these. of the suspension will depend on the extent to prices. ordinated global response, involving all asset It is important for markets to remain open, of the fall. A ‘’level one’’ or ‘’level two’’ fall on Why not then, it is argued, would the mar- classes like derivatives markets, equity mar- and for them to function in a fair and orderly the New York Stock Exchange, respectively a ket authorities not countenance a suspension kets, and credit markets. Despite the volatility manner, as they have always been. While it is 7 percent or 13 percent drop in the index, will in trading? Such a suspension might in theory of the financial crisis in 2008, markets contin- sensible to close markets as a result of high lev- see trading halted for a quarter of an hour. A prevent the continued erosion in confidence ued functioning. els of volatility, I believe regulators themselves so called ‘’level three’’ fall, which is one of 20 caused by these corrosive falls. This idea is Shutting markets during times of crisis is are deeply conscious of, and sympathetic to in- percent or more, sees trading suspended for gaining traction among market participants extremely rare but not without precedent. vestors’ concerns around price declines, how- the rest of the day. globally, one might not be faulted to assume America’s stock markets closed for almost a ever the market is a reflection of the larger Meanwhile, trading can be suspended in in- that the next major step might be to shut the week after the 9/11 terrorist attacks in 2001, uncertainties that everyone is experiencing dividual securities, for example for failing to stock markets and prevent a further self-fuel- while Hong Kong halted trading in the wake of during these trying times for investors. meet ongoing obligations like failing to publish ling sell-off. There are good reasons, however, the Black Monday crash in 1987. Greece shut Closing markets would not change the un- in financial statements and inform the market why such a suspension would not necessarily its stock market for about five weeks in 2015 derlying causes of the market decline, would accordingly. While the stock market is not make sense. during the financial crisis. Philippines closed remove transparency into investor sentiment, the economy, its performance is strongly cor- The sheer interconnectedness of markets its equity, currency and credit markets on and reduce investors’ access to their money. related to the health of the economy. A stock across different types of financial securities, Tuesday last week and opened on Thursday, This will likely only further compound the cur- market crash negatively impacts retirement and across different time zones makes it un- following President Rodrigo Duterte’s decision rent market anxiety. savings accounts such as pension funds. imaginable and erodes market confidence on Monday to widen a month-long lockdown It seems, then the likely thing to result in the Global markets have witnessed huge falls and the flow of capital. Shares can be dually of the capital region to cover the country’s closure of markets will be if people who work since the outbreak on 31 December 2019, the listed, for example a company can list in Le- main Luzon region island, home to at least 57 in the markets and most specifically in the in- JSE in South Africa have seen its biggest fall sotho on the Maseru Securities Market (MSM) million people. frastructure, such as the exchanges and the since 1999 with the Dow in America and the and in South Africa on the Johannesburg Stock However, in most cases the closure has neg- clearing houses-succumb to the coronavirus FTSE 100 having seen their biggest one de- Exchange (JSE). Trading in shares of such a ative implications on the reputation of the ex- themselves. Closing markets will not stop the clines since 1987. Investors fear the spread of company would need to be suspended in both change internationally and it erodes the confi- coronavirus. the coronavirus will destroy economic growth markets’ otherwise investors in either Maseru dence of the market, at least in the short-term. Until next week enjoy making money on leading to reduced earnings and poor share or Johannesburg would be put at a disadvan- The shutdown restricts the exit mechanism so capital markets. Thinking of raising capital (is- performances. tage if one market were to close and the other it won’t be taken kindly by investors who don’t suing shares or bonds), listing shares on the se- In response, central banks in many coun- were to remain open. Trading in the deriva- like their funds flow to be constrained. What curities market, buying or discounting bonds, tries have cut interest rates governments have tives like futures or options of those compa- the market reacts when trading resumes de- Treasury bills, equity trading and capital mar- provided rescue packages and pay cheques to nies, would also need to be suspended in both pends on the state of global markets. kets news and information? Contact us today. workers who are at home. This should in the- locations. By closing one market investors will A sharp sell-off will ensue if global weakness ory, make borrowing cheaper and encourage be deprived the opportunity to exercise their continues and a sharp rebound should there Katleho Securities, (Member of Maseru spending to boost economies. However, all shares and enjoy the benefits fungibility of be a recovery worldwide. In India, where a Securities Market) +266 27002418, 53230700, these measures have failed to tame downfall their shares, such a move will effectively erase 14-hour curfew was announced last week, its 68730055 [email protected], momentum. the closed markets from the radar of frontier bourse (Sensex Index) fell 10 percent trigger- [email protected], Considering that the stimulus packages be- market investors. ing a ‘’circuit breaker’’ and 45-minute trading www.katleho.co.ls Maseru lockdown in pictures . . . April 2 - 8 2020 Lesotho Times Big Interview 27 Thabane will weather the ABC storm - Phori

MALL Business Development, Coopera- CP: This can be interpreted in many ways. It tives and Marketing Minister, Chalane is either he does not want to sign or he is re- SPhori, says plans to exclude Prime Minis- specting the coalition partners. We cannot ter Thomas Thabane and his deputy Monyane point a finger at the King. Ntate Thabane has Moleleki from a new coalition were ill-con- given people a lot of leeway. I love him a lot ceived by the premier’s enemies. A staunch and there are few hearts like his. supporter of Dr Thabane, Mr Phori says he will His government is challenged by everyone not hesitate to ditch the All Basotho Conven- yet no one has been thrown into the dams. tion (ABC) if the 12-year-old party enters into Bodies were recovered from the dams, thrown a coalition with the Democratic Congress (DC). by the DC government. So many atrocities In this wide-ranging interview, Minister happened during the DC regime. (BNP depu- Phori (CP) tells the Lesotho Times Senior Re- ty leader Machesetsa Mofomobe) Machesetsa, porter, Pascalinah Kabi (PK), that there was (AD spokesperson Thuso) Litjobo and Seleke a high possibility Dr Thabane prorogued par- (Lesotho National Development Corporation liament in retaliation to the ninth amendment chief executive officer Mohato Seleke) were which strips him of powers to advice the King persecuted under the DC regime. In this cur- to dissolve parliament and call for fresh elec- rent regime, nothing has happened despite tions if the premier losses no confidence vote. that people say whatever they want. People insult the government and nothing happens. PK: You recently released a video on social We are not saying insults are acceptable but media, differing with some of your ABC col- we don’t believe in persecuting people. leagues in relation to Dr Thabane’s relation- Ntate Thabane has allowed people to prac- ship with Mr Moleleki. Why is that? tise democracy. He has not gone ahead and signed for the crucial appointments because CP: Coalition governments are like marriages. parties with six seats are not supporting him. Disagreements arise now and then and there This is costing him. are currently no red flags suggesting that we should push for separation in this coalition. PK: Your video has attracted the atten- Since the formation of this government, we tion of Mr Mofomobe, who now wants you have never closed ourselves in one room and locked up in a psychiatrist hospital. raised our concerns. We have not followed all steps leading to divorce. CP: I don’t want to talk about him. He is my col- I have been in two coalition governments league and I like him. He is finding the political and to me, this is the best coalition ever al- journey too challenging for him. He was very though there are some challenges. However, vocal in attacking the Prime Minister and now I don’t agree with anyone suggesting that we realises that whatever plans his party had, should part ways. Whoever is suggesting sep- CHALANE Phori. have not yielded any results. People are saying aration is targeting only certain individuals. he (Mr Mofomobe) is responsible for the death They want the ABC leader and Prime Minister of Home Affairs procurement officer Khahliso excluded from the proposed coalition govern- clear that we should concentrate on reuniting the AD is the stumbling block for those who Soro and other issues. I don’t want to believe ment. the party and deal with the PM succession just want Ntate Thabane out. those allegations. I can stand here and call for This clearly tells you that the proposed new a week before he leaves office. Some people Secondly, there has always been resistance his prosecution yet he has the guts to say Ntate coalition government is not founded on genu- wanted the PM to immediately leave office from some coalition partners every time Ntate Thabane must face the wrath of the law and ine aspirations. Our leader was forced into ex- while others did not want that. We differed Thabane wanted to appoint anyone exercising that they cannot be in government with some- ile in 2015 during the DC-led government. The there. We told them to give us a list of his mis- his constitutional right. Upon inquiry, we are one facing murder charges. I will not bring very same people who forced him into exile takes but they failed. told that the King did not sign because the Ba- myself to Ntate Machesetsa’s level. I like him now want him out. The DC also does not want I am happy that the NEC allowed parlia- sotho National Party (BNP) and the Reformed but I will not stoop to his level. Ntate Moleleki in the proposed coalition. mentarians to vote and Ntate Majoro (Finance Congress of Lesotho (RCL) did not consent to He said I must be taken to Mohlomi and that This is the very same person who went out Minister Moeketsi Majoro) won. The onus is those appointments. Are you listening to me? I am a tenderprenuer. Of course, I am a ten- of his way to facilitate our leader’s safe return on Ntate Majoro to either unite or disunite the We are told that the BNP and RCL disagreed. derprenuer. I do tender in this government. I into the country in 2017. The DC must go hang. party as PM. He is supposed to be part of the I can give you an example. When the Prime was a tenderprenuer before I became a min- It should focus on its internal business. They process of uniting the party. However, there Minister wanted to appoint Acting Chief Jus- ister and I am not ashamed of that. He is not are sowing divisions within the government are already complaints on the ground. He is tice ‘Maseforo Mahase as substantive Chief instilling fear in me, he is only reminding me and the ABC. Monyane Moleleki is not going not part of those complaining. Some people Justice, that did not happen. We are told that of who I am. I will not entertain my colleague’s anywhere. Ntate Moleleki and his Alliance of are plotting to do something to destabilise the the BNP and the RCL didn’t consent to that utterances. They say if you cannot stand the Democrats (AD) will continue to be part of this party because their preferred candidates did appointment. I am told that the King said the heat, get out of the kitchen. He is feeling the government. not win. We are aware of such plots. coalition partners did not agree to that appoint heat. Some are even suggesting that certain in- and His Majesty could not therefore take the The reason why I still stuck with Ntate Tha- PK: What would be the reason for the DC to dividuals must be fired. It is causing us more Prime Minister’s advice to appoint her. bane is that he called on the illiterate, the lit- single out Dr Thabane and Mr Moleleki as confusion. This is not the way to handle pow- When we ask which coalition partners those erate, the crooks, lerashea (gangs) to come to- a condition for forming coalition govern- er. Every one of us loves the taste of power but are, we are told it was the BNP and the RCL. In gether and form a convention. I liked that idea. ment with the ABC? we should not use it to destabilise the party. fact, they are referred to as Five and One be- I still believe in his ideology and still maintain This is why I am clear on the proposed DC/ABC cause the BNP and the RCL respectively have that he has my support come what may. I am CP: The DC is fully aware that it is smaller coalition. Should it happen, I will hold a rally five and one parliamentary seats. not attacking the BNP. I respect Chief Thesele a than the ABC. It was once the bigger party and at Qoaling and tell them I am leaving the ABC. That happened twice with the Commission- lot. I have been with him in the political strug- is currently under the same impression that I will not be part of a coalition that includes er of Police (Holomo Molibeli) and the Chief gles. it still enjoys mass support. Its leadership is the DC because there are no valid reasons for Justice. The AD did not have a problem with However, there are some points where I jealous of the ABC and wants to use the ABC the ABC to part ways with Monyane Molel- those appointments because it knows who disagree with him (Chief ‘Maseribane). As infighting as a stepping stone to rebuilding the eki. Ntate Moleleki is the one who brought controls the power to appoint people to those my leader, I want him (Chief ‘Maseribane) to DC. Its leadership thinks it can land into gov- Tom Thabane, Keketso Rantšo and Thesele offices. This is why they attack both boNtate know that when the going gets tough, they ernment without going for elections and that ‘Maseribane from exile. The trio was chased Thabane and Moleleki. Now you understand must lock themselves in one room as coalition is not going to happen. by (Mathibeli) Mokhothu through his DC par- why I want this to be looked into. leaders and deal with their differences. We They know that Ntate Thabane will give ty. There is no justice in saying Thabane and I am sure you are aware that every time Tom don’t want to hear whatever was discussed them a headache, that he will see right Moleleki should not be part of the coalition. I is attacked, the ABC NEC never protect him. in the public domain. That is where I disagree through their plans. Whatever they are plan- will join opposition. They would rather attack him while the AD with him. When your (Chief ‘Maseribane’s) ning is not going to happen. They should just Even if I am alone, I will sit on the opposition is clear that it cannot attack its coalition part- party youth attack your coalition partner, forget about being part of this government. side. I will not be part of a coalition with the ners. This is why the AD will never be loved. reprimand them. They may not listen but at Theirs are Pharaoh’s dreams. The AD’s views DC. I am not making threats here. I am dead Basotho need to closely look into and see if least reprimand them, don’t keep quiet. That is on a government of national unity (GNU) have serious. I will not be part of a coalition that in- John Deere (Mr Phori’s nickname) is wrong. where my problem with Chief Thesele lies. De- been very clear right from the start. You will cludes Mokhothu. There is no convincing rea- PK: Are you saying Mr Moleleki is support- spite that, I like him. He loves this country and remember that Ntate Thabane mentioned the son to remove others from this coalition. It is ing Dr Thabane in all these fights? can make things happen when he wants to. issue of a GNU in January 2020 when he an- just petty politics. nounced his intention to retire. CP: Yes. They (some ABC members and the PK: Are you suggesting that the BNP and the That is where people’s confusion regarding PK: You have challenged people to look into DC) want Ntate Moleleki out because he is sup- RCL are not supporting the Prime Minister? a GNU are coming from. People think that they the real reasons why the DC and other ABC porting the Prime Minister. Ntate Moleleki is can take advantage of the ABC factions. It is all members want Mr Moleleki out. It suggest- very clear when it comes to the constitution. CP: I am not going to say they are not literal- propaganda. They are saying “Ntate Thabane ed that you are privy to those reasons. The Prime Minister is using the constitution ly supporting him. Maybe they have different is forming GNU, how can he form a GNU when to execute all these decisions. I recently told views on some points raised by other leaders. other parties are left behind? That would not CP: Yes I know the reasons. It is because the Tšenola FM that the constitution is very clear. All I am saying is, don’t attack each other or be a GNU”. I think we are in this quagmire police are hounding Thomas Thabane on mur- Comrade Manama Letsie was suggesting that betray one another when disagreements arise. because of what my leader said in regard to der charges. They are saying his phone was the government is held hostage because the Rather say, this time around I didn’t manage GNU. The ABC was dealing with very crucial used to call a number whose owner is not in- King is refusing to sign and I differed. to convince this person. One more thing that I matters at the time that the PM announced his dicated. There is a constitutional clause which says want people to understand is that, we need to retirement. I think my leader’s timing (for re- They asked him to report to the police on that a PM can sign if the King does not. I still main- draw a line between a partner in government tirement) was off. The ABC national executive account. Do you think there is a case there? tain that we cannot blame the King. That and a prime minister. committee (NEC) was working hard to stabi- They just want to overthrow Ntate Thabane. clause was not crafted by Tom Thabane. It is A partner in the coalition should not behave lise the party and his timing to announce re- His phone is identified and he has been re- constitutional and I don’t understand why he like a prime minister. That is where the prob- tirement was off because the NEC’s focus was quested to identify the owner of the other (Dr Thabane) is not using it. If the King does lem lies. We must distinguish the difference shifted from stabilising the party to appointing number. Is Thabane now a mind reader? You not sign, Ntate Thabane must sign and I would between the two... At the end of the day, even the PM’s successor. That caused confusion. can tell that they just to overthrow Thabane. think he really does not want to sign. Do you in a household structure, there must be a de- Some people suggested that he was going The AD has always been clear that it has understand? cision maker. We are not all equal in coalition to pass the baton to Ntsekele (Water Minister confidence inNtate Thabane. The AD has seen governments. Samonyane Ntsekele). Ntsekele was even de- this conspiracy. You have never heard the AD PK: Would not you say he is respecting the serted by some people in his circle. We made it speaking ill of Ntate Thabane. You can tell that wishes of the coalition partners? Continues on page 29 . . . 28 Scrutator Lesotho Times April 2 - 8 2020

HONESTLY don’t know where to start. Things are unravelling so fast in his Maj- Iesty’s Majestic Kingdom. Looks like the coronavirus shall be with us for a while; Ntate Thesele Maseribane is now at war with his Of coronavirus, foreign bosom buddy Ntate Motsoahae. Who in this world could have ever foreseen such a possi- bility? The Motsoahae coalition is all but col- lapsed after Ntate Maseribane dubbed Ntate Motsoahae “unfit to remain in office”. Ntate Moeketsi Majoro has just been “elected” as scribes and ambitions Ntate Motsoahae’s successor. A new ABC/DC coalition deal is in the offing. Ntate Thabo Thakalekoala wants to become Prime Minister in place of Ntate Majoro. He also wants all foreign editors expelled. Bokang Ramatsella has totally disappeared, except only when he emerges to make his character- istic haywire remarks against Ntate Metsing. Ntate Joang Molapo believes Coronavirus is a hoax. Ntate Tefo Mapesela has rubbished First Lady Maesiah as mantlharunye. My plate is very full. I just don’t know which issues to tackle first. The editor of the Lesotho Times is in this bad habit of canning my column whenever there is a deluge of last-minute advertising. So, for the past three weeks, I have been deprived of an opportunity to dispense my wisdom. How unfortunate. It is as if the editor does not know that every issue in the Kingdom needs my wis- dom. There are just too many issues now out- standing. I am attracted to deal with all of them now but space will not allow. But despite the effluxion of time, I am sorry I have to take you back to issues that you had either forgot- ten or ignored. I want to briefly deal with Ntate Joang Mo- lapo (aka Chief Molapo) before I go to the main subject of my purview this week, Ntate Thabo Thakalekoala.

tate Molapo is generally one of my most favourite cabinet members and Npoliticians. He is level headed most of times and is not prone to hyperbole and gaffes as most of our political actors. When he deals with an issue, he deals with it plainly and ra- tionally. My disappointment with him comes during those times that he takes leave of his senses. Or during those times he succumbs to his insatiable love for the good life. Remem- THABO Thakalekoala. JOANG Molapo. ber his recent junket to Paris to take a nap in a plush five-star hotel then return home, after collecting all his per diems from the UN and Lesotho does not get tourists from those Nigerian or even Sudanese who will see that the Lesotho government, but without attend- countries anyway, he opined. business vacancy and then decide to exploit it. ing a single session of the UN summit he went After all, are we now in one global village and for. y question is. What planet are you capital flows across borders flawlessly. Remember also his debut in the first Mot- residing on Ntate Molapo? Are you One would expect a man of Ntate Thakale- soahae government as Home Affairs Minister Min Jupiter, Pluto or have gone further koala’s pedigree to know better. But alas he when he promised to expose all the corruption to Mars? How can you exhibit such anthro- has bizarrely decided to take leave of his intel- Nikuv had lavished on corrupt ministers and pological foolishness and lack of knowledge. ligent brains. officials in the government of Ntate Pink Pa- Not having Coronavirus here should be the In Ntate Thakalekoala’s world, everything kalitha Panther. That corruption had enabled real reason why all tourists must be banned man. There is no doubt about that. He is also bad in Lesotho is a result of foreign scribes. Nikuv to land that multi-billion maloti tender because they are the carriers of the virus. How famous in Lesotho for his infectious good Expel boNtate Herbert Moyo, Silence Charum- to print our passports and IDs without an open can you fail to grasp that simple fact. looks. If there was a beauty pageant for men, bira, Ray Mungoshi, Abel Chapatarongo, public tender process. At once, I thought this To his credit, Ntate Nkaku Kabi who had be- I would sell all my goats and sheep to contrib- Shakeman Mugari and there shall forever be was a perfect opportunity to prove that cor- come better known for his work in defending ute to a fund to take him to represent us there. no coronavirus in Lesotho. Expel, these five ruption will no longer be tolerated in Lesotho. Ntate Motsoahae and Maesiah than his work No doubt he would return with the Mr World and Lesotho would automatically eclipse Sin- I don’t know how much Nikuv has stolen from as Minister of Health, sprung to action and trophy or Mr Universe trophy. Just imagine Mr gapore and Dubai in terms of prosperity. Ex- Lesotho since then. It must be billions; thanks found his mantle. He admonished Ntate Mo- Thakalekoala serenading the world in his un- pel these five and Lesotho would immediately to Ntate Molapo who reneged on his promises lapo as a bit of a “confused” chap. derpants with his flawless skin on stage at the start manufacturing automobiles. Expel these to fight Nikuv. “There is no way that while other countries Mr World or Mr Universe contest podium in five and there would be no murder charges As soon as he was in his seat at Home Af- are making heavy strides like border lock- Las Vegas? against a sitting PM. Expel these five and the fairs, he accepted a trip to Israeli, Nikuv’s seat downs and grounding people from leaving Mr Thakalekoala decided to put all his intel- coalition will hold intact. Expel these five and of power, or some other destination out there. their countries then we decide to open our ligence on show in a piece in the March 6 2020 everything shall be honky-dory. He went there with Lady Molapo in tow. Once borders and call for people to visit our country. edition of Public Eye. There is one problem with Ntate Thakaleko- there, Chief Molapo and his wife were imme- No, he was totally out of line,” Mr Kabi said, in Under the headline “Foreign Journos distort ala’s wisdom. It’s called xenophobia. So, how diately Nikuved. That’s the last time we had a rare sensible remark. the Lesotho story” Mr Thakalekoala literally can such a xenophobe wish to become Prime about Nikuv and all its corruption. The com- Criticism of Ntate Molapo came as far as asked for the expulsion of all the foreign jour- Minister? Well. Expel the above five and Ntate pany has effectively gotten away with murder. Ethiopia where Professor Mafa Sejanamane, nalists who have set up shop here and trans- Thalekoala will automatically become PM. For Thanks to Chief Molapo’s moments of weak- who really fought hard to get that diplomatic formed the otherwise staid media that was a now, Ntate Thakalekoala should be happy that ness. posting, implored Ntate Molapo to just “apolo- national embarrassment before these foreign he has been promoted to SPS (Senior Private Scrutator is prepared to forgive the chief for gise” for this kind of statement. scribes descended on His Majesty’s Majestic Secretary) to the Prime Minister. all these misteps. After all, corruption is an of- But instead of doing the honourable thing Kingdom. ficial policy of all the regimes that come and go and apologizing for his fatuous remarks, Ntate What Ntate Thakalekoala did not of course udging by his humungous intelligence, in Lesotho. But Chief Molapo’s recent goofing Molapo recoiled into dead silence after a vain tell us is what is so special about the Lesotho that’s probably the furthest he can go in over the Coronavirus pandemic is just unfor- attempt to claim he was misquoted. Ntate Mo- story that he prescribes it must only be told by Jhis ambition to become PM. Scrutator is givable. lapo, how can you be misquoted on audio? Basotho. told an SPS holds enormous responsibilities. Chief Molapo, who when not napping in Since when have television and radio record- But there is no doubt in his thinking; “Ba- For instance, it’s an SPS’s responsibility to en- Paris moonlights as our Tourism and Environ- ings started misquoting people? Imagine Ntate sotho editors were just as capable and it was sure there is enough toilet paper in the bath- ment minister, recently made an impassioned Molapo gushing the following remark; “even time they controlled newsrooms and process- room before the PM goes to dump. It is also the call for tourists to flood Lesotho. This as the that television recording misquoted me…”. es content…” SPS’s responsibility to ensure the PM’s shoes Coronavirus was wrecking havoc across the Wow!!! are nicely polished. And during foreign tours, world killing thousands. Me thinks Ntate Molapo you should just own hat Ntate Thakalekoala did not tell us it is the SPS’s responsibility to knock on the In a video clip that went viral on social me- up and apologise. It’s never too late to do the is what it is that is stopping this from PM’s door and ensure he is not late for meet- dia, Chief Molapo said: “As we speak about right thing. You may still be a bit frustrated Whappening. In the same story, Ntate ings. Lesotho specifically, Lesotho remains an ex- man after your loss for the BNP deputy lead- Leketho Ntsukunyane laments the fact that Why don’t you concentrate on these enor- tremely safe place to visit”. ership post to Ntate Mofomobe. That however Lesotho does not have a daily newspaper. But mous duties Ntate Thakalekoala, which needs “The risk of contracting coronavirus here at does not justify you taking leave of your sens- both him and Ntate Thakalekoala do not ex- all the wisdom and intelligence that a man can this moment is zero but for all other tourism es. Get over it Ntate. Someone in the BNP must plain what it is that stopping local editors from master. Why abuse your intelligence on for- risks, Lesotho remains an extremely safe place tell Ntate Molapo that apologizing for a wrong exploiting that opportunity. eigners who are mere investors and have only to visit and we hope and encourage people to is a show of strength, not a weakness. South After all it only needs the ability to string created jobs in a media sector that was once visit Lesotho.” Africa is now Africa’s epicenter of the virus. a sentence in English, a few bucks to pay for a national embarrassment. I am not finished Ntate Molapo also assured anyone who Encouraging tourists from there to flood our printing to start a newspaper. So, what is the with you Ntate Thakalekoala unless you apolo- cared to listen not to worry about what was country, just because they are not from Italy problem here. What’s even stopping Ntate gise to our foreign colleagues who have done happening in Italy and Spain, two countries or Spain, is not only rank madness. It is also Thakalekoala himself from starting a daily well for all and sundry… that so far have the greatest number of deaths treasonous. newspaper? If that opportunity remains un- from the pandemic. Ntate Thakalekoala is a highly intelligent exploited, why then blame the next Congolese, Ache!!! Motoring Lesotho Times April 2 - 8 2020

OHANNESBURG — BMW has ‘virtually’ launched its fi rst-ev- Jer 2 Series Gran Coupe in South Africa, with the company releasing BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe is local pricing and range details for the new low-slung saloon, which starts at R515 000. The 2 Series Gran Coupe is BMW’s answer to the Mercedes-Benz CLA, and unlike the rear-driven 2 Series here: SA pricing versus rivals Coupe, the GC is built around BMW’s ULK front-wheel-drive platform. While its styling is not going to gar- out there. ner universal praise, it does have It’s also worth noting that while some sporty touches, like frameless the CLA is more expensive than the side windows and a sloping rear 2 Series GC, it does have a more pow- roofl ine. erful base engine and it is a bigger In terms of its mechanical content vehicle in size, measuring 4688mm and cabin, the 2 Series Gran Coupe in length versus 4526mm. In fact, is closely related to the new 1 Series the CLA is actually longer than the and shares its two-strong petrol en- C-Class. gine range, while also adding a die- The 2 Series Gran Coupe range sel motor to the mix. The 218i and 220d GC models are As has become the norm through- available in fi ve fl avours — Basic, out the BMW line-up, there are no Advantage, Sport Line, Luxury Line middle-of-the-road petrol engine op- and M Sport — and each trim adds tions, meaning you can either have its own unique design features. Lemon and Herb or Extra Hot. BMW has not released the full The former option is the 218i, standard features list and options which is powered by BMW’s 1.5-li- pricing for the 2 GC as yet (the con- tre turbo triple with 103kW and fi gurator had not gone live at the 220Nm. The fi ery option is the M235i time of writing), but we do know fi tted with all-wheel-drive as well as that it will be offered with a wide ar- BMW’s most potent four-cylinder ray of options. engine — a 2-litre unit that produces These include BMW’s Live Cockpit 225kW and 450Nm. Plus and Live Cockpit Professional, The 220d turbodiesel variant is a the latter also including the BMW In- 2-litre model that’s good for 140kW telligent Personal Assistant with AI. and 400Nm. Here you also get a fully digital dis- BMW claims a 0-100km/h time of play and operating system, featuring 4.9 seconds for the M235i, while the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe 2020. two 26cm displays. 218i does the deed in 8.7 seconds and Buyers can also opt for gesture the 220d in 7.5s. control, Head-Up Display and Active Going up against the Mercedes- Cruise Control with Stop & Go. AMG CLA 35 and Audi S3 Sedan, the Buyers can also choose between BMW 218i Gran Coupe Mercedes-Benz CLA 220d Other available gizmos include M235i gains a few distinctive design three suspension types: standard, 103kW/220Nm R515 000 140kW/400Nm R622 000 the BMW Digital Key, Lane Depar- features to set it apart from humbler M Sport (which is 10mm lower) and Audi A3 Sedan 40 TFSI Audi S3 quattro Sedan ture Warning system with active 2 GCs, including a 3D mesh design Adaptive suspension with variable 140kW/320Nm R523 910 228kW/400Nm R706 189 lane return, the Driving Assistant for the grille, larger air intakes and damper control. Mercedes-Benz A200 Sedan BMW M235i xDrive Gran Coupe package with Lane Change Warn- 18-inch alloy wheels, with 19” rims Now that we know its basic cre- 120kW/250Nm R541 000 225kW/450Nm R725 000 ing, route-ahead assistant, rear col- being available on the options list. dentials, let’s take a look at how the Mercedes-Benz A200d Sedan Mercedes-AMG CLA 35 4Matic lision and crossing traffi c warning, The M235i also comes with all- 2 Series Gran Coupe is priced in rela- 110kW/320Nm R579 000 225kW/400Nm R868 566 and the Parking Assistant which wheel-drive and a mechanical tion to its rivals. Mercedes-Benz CLA 200 In terms of design, the 2 Series provides semi-autonomous parking Torsen limited-slip diff, but even the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe vs alter- 120kW/250Nm R579 380 Gran Coupe is more similar in con- assistance for parallel and vertical standard GC models get agility-en- natives BMW 220d Gran Coupe cept to the Mercedes-Benz CLA than bays. hancing systems like ARB and Per- Audi A3 Sedan 30 TFSI 140kW/400Nm R595 000 it is to the A-Class sedan, but because All cars are sold with a fi ve-year/90 formance Control, which manage 85kW/200Nm R464 410 Mercedes-Benz A250 AMG-Line the latter is priced closer to the 000km maintenance plan and two- the wheel slip and apply brakes on Audi A3 Sedan 35 TFSI Sedan 165kW/350Nm R 6 1 5 BMW, we added it to the mix to give year/unlimited kilometre warranty. the inside wheel to curb understeer. 110kW/250Nm R502 410 771 you a better perspective of what’s — IOL Motoring

Thabane will weather the ABC storm - Phori

. . . from page 27 stable. We have three arms of government. colleagues in parliament met somewhere, that ers. He is not the one who came up with those So the confusion emerges when they disagree The judiciary, parliament and the executive. amendment was fi led. The amendment states powers. He will hurt you. He is powerful. on their own, where we are not there, but There are situations where a party structure that when a prime minister loses a vote of no bring those issues to the public domain. Many wants to be an executive and government will confi dence, he should not advise the King to PK: Are you saying Dr Thabane used proro- times we have heard people blaming the First collapse. In the same fashion, the government dissolve parliament. Do you realise that the gation to reiterate from the ninth amend- Lady (‘Maesaiah Thabane) for certain things. will be unstable where the judiciary wants to constitution was amended in a minute? ment? She has erred but people continue accus- assume the executive’s powers. Then we see a situation where someone is ing her of many other things. I am a cabinet There is confusion right now. We have the saying, I am proroguing the parliament be- CP: I am not saying he reiterated by prorogu- minister but have never seen her in cabinet commissioner appointed by the judiciary. He cause of coronavirus. Do you see that? One ing parliament. I do not know his own genu- meetings. The Government Secretary takes no longer functions under the leadership of would ask, why are we not closing parliament ine reasons for proroguing parliament. I know minutes of the cabinet meetings and the deci- his employer (Dr Thabane). sine die? Someone is saying I am proroguing reasons that he shared with us but I am ap- sions of the cabinet are produced as they were That is a political position. Whom is he re- parliament. plying my mind on this issue and say this may discussed. However, such decisions are still porting to now because I am sure that he can- He did not make any mistake. He was at- have been provoked by the ninth amendment blamed on the fi rst lady. not report to his boss now that he is appointed tacked fi rst when people clipped his powers. stripping him of his powers. I am saying it I am part of the ABC NEC. I have never seen by the judiciary? I would be lying to myself if I He retaliated by proroguing parliament. There might have been like that. Remember that her in our meetings. It may come across as said the government is stable. are so many things that I can tell you. I speak person is a seasoned politician. Most of his age though I am defending her but that is the na- nothing but the truth, like a dying man. mates are no longer around. ked truth. I love telling the truth and the truth PK: Besides the issue of the commissioner Of course, we understand that the corona- He is in power. He has walked this road for only. I am not saying she has not erred. She has of police and other governance related is- virus is a serious issue. He has dealt with the far too long. I don’t know if there is anyone and that is not good, that must be corrected. sues, what are some of the things that cause instability within the party but he is fi ghting who can defeat him. The worst part is that he the instability? back. Have you ever seen a horse staying calm has been paired with Monyane Moleleki, an- PK: As a cabinet minister, what is your take when it is being castrated? other long-serving politician. on the instability of this coalition govern- CP: The parliament is unstable. We have the You go ahead and strip off the prime minis- We will have serious problems if we chal- ment? ninth amendment right now, which was fi led ter his powers and think he will just stand by lenge these two. The best way to go about this in the form of addendum. It did not appear on and watch as he is being attacked? He will fi ght is to reconcile and build our country. I don’t CP: I don’t want to lie. This government is un- the business of the house on that day. After our back and you will get hurt. He has all the pow- see anyone defeating Ntate Thabane. 30 Regional News Lesotho Times April 2 - 8 2020

Stephen Grootes

EAR is running rampant. There are many worrying questions. South Africa at the crossroads: FWill we (and our parents) sur- vive the coronavirus? Will commu- nities living in shacks survive the lockdown? Will I still be employed in what could be a global depression af- which direction will we take? terwards? Still, there is value in tak- ing a longer-term view and asking what this could do to South Africa’s 10-year outlook. could, in fact, strengthen populist Everything seems apocalyptic. voices. Police officers and soldiers Trips to the shops involve possible abusing people during the lockdown, checkpoints and roadblocks, people a calculated campaign to blame living in poorer areas are being bul- Ramaphosa for whatever happens lied and often forced back into tiny during the lockdown and to claim shacks. Around the world, there is that he is solely responsible for what dark talk of planetary disaster and might be the toughest economy since economic depression. the Great Depression might still find It won’t be like this forever, fertile ground. though. While this is unprecedented, CYRIL Ramaphosa. This would see him under attack we have never been so properly both from within the ANC and by armed and able to defend ourselves. voters, and there would be no re- There is talk of vaccines being 12 form, no improvement. Populists to 18 months away. At the absolute could try to stoke the flames of rac- worst, it is likely that certain proto- ism (how it was white people who cols will be developed that allow peo- brought the disease to South Africa, ple to work and travel safely, involv- etc… these claims don’t have to be ing masks and sprays and protective true). clothing. Food production continues. If the populists win, we would find One day, and hopefully sooner rath- ourselves in a much worse position er than later, international airline in 10 years’ time. travel will resume, just perhaps not After the lockdown, people who at the scale of what it was before. have skills that can be used to make But what will the world look like other people money will still be valu- in 10 years’ time? able. There will still be capital, and It’s important to realise that we are capitalism will continue. The drive to not alone in these uncertain times. make money, the profit motive, will It is one thing to be the only person survive. Money flows will continue, or country dramatically affected by and globalisation will change in im- certain events; it is different if others portant ways (where you are in the are in the same boat. If you suddenly world has possibly never been less cannot keep up with your mortgage important in terms of productivity payments and you are the only per- during a time when over three bil- son in that position, you are vulnera- lion people are living in lockdown). ble to losing your home. If everyone One consequence of this crisis is rigo Duterte and others like them, This could well enhance the pow- What has happened in interna- in the street is in the same position, it that President Cyril Ramaphosa is while terrifyingly unqualified to er of the person who happens to be tional markets, and the JSE, has the is very different. Then, the authori- almost guaranteed a second term in lead in any crisis, have won political in charge at the time — Ramaphosa. potential to be disastrous. The JSE ties, in this case the central bank, office. Certainly, what is often deri- power and won’t be giving it back The optimists among us (of which had lost 30 percent of its value at will lower interest rates. It is also not sively called the “RET crowd” have easily. And yet, after this global pan- there are still some) may see this one point this year. For those who in the interest of banks to suddenly been quiet — so far. Ramaphosa has demic, there may be more appetite as changing our trajectory over the were planning on living off their in- repossess properties on a large scale shown leadership and lent his own among voters for better, stronger next 10 years in a positive way. This vestments, this is devastating. Some because they will be worthless. And legitimacy to the organs of state, the leadership. is because Ramaphosa could come might go from having an interna- so, your position of power, relative police and soldiers who have to en- Here, things could go two ways. out of this crisis with a strongly tional trip every two years and leav- to the bank, becomes very different. force the lockdown. For many, this There may be more desire for enhanced mandate, both among ing something for their children to This is also true on a global scale. has been summarised in the ques- leaders with legitimacy across all citizens and within the ANC. That moving in with their children just to Were we alone as South Africa in tion, “What if it were Jacob Zuma” in of society, leaders like Ramaphosa. would allow him a much freer hand survive. this, money would simply leave our office during this time? There may also be more of a willing- to implement his reform agenda. But the adverts that are currently economy? But we are not alone. The Ramaphosa’s personal author- ness to allow tendencies that remove The silence of his opponents running for some investment firms search for yield will continue, which ity has been enhanced, and this will the onus from “rights” to “responsi- during this time, the timing of the are right when they say that the two means that what happens to us will make it harder to criticise or cam- bilities”. The argument might run Moody’s downgrade and the mas- most important dates are when you be dictated also by what happens paign against him. This might well that instead of people demanding sive scope of Covid-19 means that he put your money in, and when you in other economies. We are likely be part of a bigger global shift. For the “right” to leave their home, they will have the opportunity to imple- take it out. to benefit in some form from both the last decade, populism has been have a “responsibility” to the rest ment reforms. The world is at the crossroads and the US economic stimulus and the on the march, driven by fear and of society to obey the government’s If the optimists are right, then the events that play out over the next $5-trillion that is being pumped into prejudice. The LGBT rights and oth- decisions. Should a large number of this could mean that in 10 years’ few months will have a vital bearing the global economy by G20 countries er wedge cultural issues have been people die in South Africa because of time, the trajectory will have been on which direction South Africa, and Then there is our own political tra- used to win elections. Populists like the coronavirus, this demand may changed for the better. the human race, choose. jectory. Donald Trump, Jair Bolsonaro, Rod- grow stronger. But the pessimists will say that this — DM

In Zimbabwe, ‘you win coronavirus or you win starvation’

ARARE, Zimbabwe — “We are already of the population. African countries where many people rely on said Tinashe Moyo at the supermarket. “I am ruined. What more harm can corona- Last year a United Nations expert called informal markets, a lockdown could mean very scared.” Hvirus do?” Irene Kampira asked as she the number of hungry people in Zimbabwe immediate food shortages. Few health workers are available as doctors sorted second-hand clothes at a bustling mar- “shocking” for a country not in conflict. The Once-prosperous Zimbabwe was full of re- and nurses strike. ket in a poor suburb of Zimbabwe’s capital, World Food Program has said more than 7 newed promise with the forced resignation in “There is a difference between being heroic Harare. million people, or half the country, needs aid. late 2017 of long-time leader Robert Mugabe. and being suicidal,” said Tawanda Zvakada, People in one of the world’s most devas- Harare, like most cities and towns across But President Emmerson Mnangagwa has president of the Zimbabwe Hospital Doctors tated nations are choosing daily survival over Zimbabwe, has an acute water shortage and struggled to fulfil promises of prosperity since Association. measures to protect themselves from a virus residents at times go for months, even years, taking power. He blames the country’s crisis Health workers described a lack of disin- that “might not even kill us,” Kampira said. without a working tap. Many must crowd in part on sanctions imposed on certain in- fectants, sanitizers and even water at hospi- Even as the country enters a “total lock- communal wells, fearing the close contact will dividuals, including himself, by the U.S. over tals. down” over the virus on Monday, social dis- speed the coronavirus’ spread. rights abuses. And yet Health Minister Obadiah Moyo re- tancing is pushed aside in the struggle to ob- “If the taps were working, we wouldn’t be Daily necessities in Zimbabwe make social peatedly says Zimbabwe is “well prepared” to tain food, cash, cheap public transport, even here, swarming the well like bees on a beehive distancing an elusive ideal. In downtown Ha- deal with COVID-19 cases. clean water. The World Health Organization’s or flies on sewage. We are busy exchanging rare, hordes of people congregate at banks for But frightened health workers cited the recommended virus precautions seem far- coronavirus here coughing and spitting saliva cash, which is in short supply. Others pack death of a prominent broadcaster at an ill- fetched for many of Zimbabwe’s 15 million at each other,” said 18-year old Annastancia public transport. equipped isolation center specifically re- people. Jack while waiting her turn. “We are the only ones practicing social served for COVID-19 cases. “It’s better to get coronavirus while looking The government has closed borders and distancing, we sit in our cars all day,” said “They didn’t have a ventilator to help him,” for money than to sit at home and die from banned gatherings of more than 50 people Blessing Hwiribisha, a motorist in a fuel line Zvakada said. “The inability of our system to hunger,” Kampira said, to loud approval from while encouraging people to stay at home. snaking for more than a kilometre in the poor manage one patient is worrying. What about other vendors. But the majority of Zimbabweans need to suburb of Kuwadzana. when there are 50 patients?” The southern African nation has few cases go out daily to put food on the table. With in- “Look at them,” he said. He pointed at a su- Zimbabwe has less than 20 ventilators to but its health system is in tatters, and the vi- flation over 500 percent most industries have permarket across the road where hundreds of help people in severe respiratory distress, he rus could quickly overwhelm it. Hundreds of closed, leaving many people to become street people shoved to buy maize meal, which has said. He said the country needs hundreds to public hospital doctors and nurses have gone vendors. Zimbabwe has the world’s second- become scarce due to a devastating drought adequately deal with the virus. on strike over the lack of protective equip- largest informal economy after Bolivia, ac- and lack of foreign currency to import more. “We see a situation where Zimbabwe can ment. Many Zimbabweans are already vul- cording to the International Monetary Fund. “What is happening in Zimbabwe is very become a graveyard if we are not careful,” nerable from hunger or underlying health Police in recent days have tried to clear scary. It’s like we are playing cards. Its either said Itai Rusike, director of the Harare-based issues like HIV, which is present in 12 percent vendors from the streets, in vain. As in other you win coronavirus or you win starvation,” Community Working Group on Health. — AP April 2 - 8 2020 Lesotho Times Africa 31

Rwanda to deliver free food to 20 000 households during coronavirus lockdown Botswana registers first Covid-19

APE Town — Rwanda has formulated a social protective plan for the delivery of cases as three people test positive Cfree food to at least 20 000 households in the capital Kigali. The door-to-door delivery is meant to miti- gate the impact of a lockdown implemented on March 21 by the government, aimed at limiting the spread of the Covid-19 pandemic. On Friday Rwandan President Paul Kag- ame acknowledged that people’s livelihoods had been affected by the lockdown. “We know that this is not an easy period for most Rwandans, whose livelihoods have been interrupted across the country. But we ask you to be patient. Although we are mak- ing good progress, we cannot afford to relax yet,” he said. The social protection plan would support the most vulnerable in communities, Kag- ame added. “We need to speed this up. The govern- ment will continue to do everything possible, to support Rwandans through this challeng- ing time,” he said. Kagame said he also planned to provide es- sential services such as the supply of water and electricity for free. A statement from the health ministry said ten additional cases of Covid-19 had been reported in Rwanda, raising the nation- al tally to 70. The East African country reported its first case two weeks ago. The new infections include six people who recently travelled from Dubai, two coming BOTSWANA has registered three coronavirus cases. back from South Africa, one traveller from Nigeria and another who had travelled in the East Africa region. OHANNESBURG — Botswana is the latest ‘We have now moved from prevention to to worries over the spread of coronavirus. He All patients are in isolation and in stable African country to register cases of Cov- containment. In the past we have preached also urged all local organisations, businesses conditions, the ministry said. Jid-19 after three people tested positive for prevention but now that we have cases, we and institutions to adopt the same measure to “Heightened vigilance continues to be re- the virus. have moved to prevention and containment prevent the virus from reaching Botswana. quired,” it said. The country’s Minister of Health and Well- at the same time,’ he said. Speaking on a live address on national tel- “Enhanced prevention measures an- ness Dr Lemogang Kwape made the an- President Mokgweetsi Masisi was expected evision at the time, Masisi said his govern- nounced by the government of Rwanda nouncement during a live broadcast on Bot- to address the nation on the matter on Tues- ment was leaving no stone unturned in its bid must be rigorously observed; non-essential swana Television around 8pm on Monday. day morning at 9am. to ensure that Botswana remained free from businesses are closed, travel between cities Kwape said the three, two men and a wom- Two weeks ago, Botswana rolled out policies Covid-19. and districts is suspended and non-essential an, had travelled to the United Kingdom and to avoid the spread of Covid-19 into the coun- “Whether we like it or not, it is only a mat- movement outside of the home are not per- Thailand and that they were currently kept in try by suspending overseas trips by officials. ter of time before the coronavirus arrives in mitted,” said the health ministry in a state- isolation at the Sir Ketumile Masire Teaching Masisi said they had decided to suspend Botswana,” Masisi said at the time. ment. — ANA Hospital and other secure places. overseas trips for the country’s officials due — The Star Virus prevention measures turn violent in parts of Africa

OHANNESBURG — Police set to enter a three-week lockdown to guard against an apparent threat fired tear gas at a crowd of on Monday. The country’s handful to public health. Breaking it is not JKenyan ferry commuters as of virus cases already threatens to only irresponsible but also puts the country’s first day of a corona- overwhelm one of the world’s most others in harm’s way.” virus curfew slid into chaos. Else- fragile health systems. Kenya’s government has not where, officers were captured in In Kenya, outrage over the ac- said how many people have been mobile phone footage whacking tions of police was swift. arrested. Because courts are also people with batons. “We were horrified by excessive affected by virus prevention meas- Virus prevention measures have use of police force” ahead of the ures, all but serious cases will now taken a violent turn in parts of Af- curfew that began Friday night, be dealt with at police stations, the rica as countries impose lockdowns Amnesty International Kenya and government has said. That means and curfews or seal off major cit- 19 other human rights groups said anyone detained for violating cur- ies. Health experts say the virus’ in a statement issued Saturday. few faces time in crowded cells. spread, though still at an early “We continue to receive testimo- The Law Society of Kenya will go stage, resembles the arc seen in Eu- nies from victims, eyewitnesses to court to challenge the curfew on rope, adding to widespread anxi- and video footage showing police the grounds that it is unconstitu- ety. Cases across Africa were set to gleefully assaulting members of the tional and has been abused by po- climb above 4000 late Saturday. public in other parts of the coun- lice, president Nelson Havi said in Abuses of the new measures by try.” a statement. The penalty for break- authorities are an immediate con- The tear gas caused hundreds ing a curfew is not corporal punish- cern. of people trying to reach a ferry ment, he added. Minutes after South Afri- in the port city of Mombasa ahead “It is evident that COVID-19 will ca’s three-week lockdown began of the overnight curfew to touch be spread more by actions of police Friday, police screamed at home- their faces as they vomited, spat than of those claimed to have con- less people in downtown Johan- and wiped away tears, increasing travened the curfew,” Havi said. nesburg and went after some with the chance of the virus’ spread, For most people, the new coro- batons. Some citizens reported the the rights groups said. Even some navirus causes mild or moderate police use of rubber bullets. Fifty- health workers reported being in- symptoms, such as fever and cough five people across the country were timidated as they tried to provide that clear up in two to three weeks. arrested. The country leads Africa services after the 7pm curfew. For some, especially older adults with more than 1000 cases. The police actions were unaccep- and people with existing health In an apparent show of force on table and “brutal,” the Kenya Con- problems, it can cause more severe Saturday, South Africa’s military ference of Catholic Bishops’ Justice illness, including pneumonia, and raided a large workers’ hostel in the and Peace Commission said in a death. Alexandra township where some separate statement. If Kenya goes further and impos- residents had defied the lockdown. “I am appealing to our people to es a lockdown, “there is bound to In Rwanda, the first country in make it very unnecessary for them be violence,” said James Shikwati, sub-Saharan Africa to impose a to engage with police by staying at an economist. People in poor neigh- lockdown, police have denied that home,” Kenya’s Cabinet secretary bourhoods of cities like the capital, two civilians shot dead Monday for health, Mutahi Kagwe, said. “I Nairobi, will need a way to access were killed for defying the new am also urging the police that peo- food, water and sanitation. measures, saying the men attacked ple must be treated humanely.” The “It will mean for the first day, an officer after being stopped. country has 38 virus cases. maybe, they stay indoors,” he said. And Zimbabwe, where police are Kenya’s interior ministry on Sat- “Then the second day, when they SANDF officers take up positions outside a hostel in Alexandra township east of widely criticised by human rights urday replied to criticism in a state- are hungry, they will move out.” Johannesburg. groups for deadly crackdowns, is ment saying the curfew “is meant — AP 32 International Lesotho Times April 2 - 8 2020 Prince Charles out of self-isolation after coronavirus infection

ONDON — Prince Charles is and is “operating under the cur- rying coronavirus. now out of self-isolation after rent standard government and A Clarence House spokesper- Lhe tested positive for corona- medical restrictions that apply son previously said: “He has been virus. nationwide”. displaying mild symptoms but The 71-year-old royal — who is The UK government has told otherwise remains in good health heir to the British throne after his citizens that if they display any and has been working from home mother Queen Elizabeth II — was symptoms of the disease that they throughout the last few days as confirmed to have tested positive must isolate for seven days. usual. for the potentially deadly respira- Prince Charles’ wife 72-year- “The Duchess of Cornwall has tory illness last week, but in an old Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, also been tested but does not have update from Clarence House it must stay in isolation for 14 days the virus. In accordance with gov- has been revealed that Charles in accordance with guidelines for ernment and medical advice. has completed a seven-day iso- family members who have been “The tests were carried out by lation period and is making a in contact with somebody infect- the NHS in Aberdeenshire where strong recovery. ed but have not developed symp- they met the criteria required for A statement released on Mon- toms themselves. testing. day read: “Clarence House has Charles is believed to have de- “It is not possible to ascertain confirmed today that, having veloped minor symptoms two from whom the prince caught the consulted with his doctor, The weekends ago while he was at virus owing to the high number Prince of Wales is now out of self- Highgrove House in Gloucester of engagements he carried out isolation.” and he flew privately to Scotland in his public role during recent The statement continued to say where he received an NHS test weeks.” that the prince is in “good health” which confirmed that he was car- — Bang Showbiz PRINCE Charles. US nears China’s virus death toll as New York calls for help

EW YORK — The mounting death toll clocks read 479 days to go, with the games of every three Americans — live in the 33 Shopkeepers were limiting the number of from the virus outbreak in the United now scheduled to kick off on July 23, 2021. states where governors have declared state- people they were letting in, dispensing hand NStates had it poised Tuesday to overtake In New York City, Cuomo and health offi- wide orders or recommendations to stay sanitizer and checking customers for signs of China’s grim toll of 3 300 deaths, with New cials warned Monday that the crisis unfolding home. fever. York Govnor Andrew Cuomo saying up to 1 there is just a preview of what other U.S. com- In California, officials put out a similar call More than three-quarters of a million peo- million more healthcare workers were need- munities could soon face. for medical volunteers as coronavirus hos- ple worldwide have become infected and over ed. “Please come help us,” he urged. New York State’s death toll climbed by more pitalizations doubled over the last four days 37 000 have died, according to Johns Hopkins. Hard-hit Italy and Spain have already over- than 250 people in a day Monday to more than and the number of patients in intensive care For most people, the coronavirus causes taken China and now account for more than 1,200, most of them in the city. tripled. mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever half of the nearly 38 000 COVID-19 deaths “We’ve lost over one thousand New York- “Challenging times are ahead for the next and cough. But for others, especially older worldwide, according to figures from Johns ers,” Cuomo said. “To me, we’re beyond stag- 30 days, and this is a very vital 30 days,” Presi- adults and people with existing health prob- Hopkins University. gering already.” dent Donald Trump told reporters Monday. lems, the virus can cause severe symptoms But the World Health Organization warned Even before the governor’s appeal, close to “The more we dedicate ourselves today, the like pneumonia. More than 160,000 people Tuesday that while attention has shifted to epi- 80 000 former nurses, doctors and other pro- more quickly we will emerge on the other side have recovered, according to Johns Hopkins. centres in Western Europe and North Ameri- fessionals were stepping up to volunteer, and of the crisis.” Italy and Spain saw their death tolls climb ca, the coronavirus pandemic was far from a Navy hospital ship had arrived with 1,000 In contrast, the crisis is continuing to ease by more than 800 each on Monday, but the over in Asia. beds to relieve pressure on overwhelmed hos- in China. On Tuesday, officials in the world’s WHO’s emergency chief said cases there were “This is going to be a long-term battle and pitals. most populous nation reported just 48 new “potentially stabilizing.” At the same time, he we cannot let down our guard,” said Dr Take- News also came of the first U.S. service COVID-19 cases, all of them brought from warned against letting up on tough contain- shi Kasai, the WHO Regional Director for the member to die from the disease. Secretary of overseas. ment measures. Western Pacific. “We need every country to Defense Mark Esper said the death of the New In Wuhan, people were ready to jump, cry “We have to now push the virus down, and keep responding according to their local situ- Jersey Army National Guardsman strength- and “revenge shop” as the Chinese city once that will not happen by itself,” Dr. Michael ation.” ened their resolve to work more closely with at the centre of the global virus outbreak reo- Ryan said. In Japan, the countdown clocks were reset partners to stop the spread of COVID-19. pened. Italy’s death toll climbed to nearly 11 600. and ticking again for the Tokyo Olympics af- “This is a stinging loss for our military com- “I’m so excited, I want to cry,” said one wom- But in a bit of positive news, the numbers ter organizers announced new dates follow- munity,” Esper said in a release. an at the Chuhe Hanjie pedestrian mall, where showed a continued slowdown in the rate of ing the postponement from this summer. The More than 235 million people — about two about 75 percent of the shops had reopened. new confirmed cases and a record number of people recovered. “We are saving lives by staying at home, by maintaining social distance, by traveling less and by closing schools,” said Dr. Luca Richeldi, a lung specialist. At least six of Spain’s 17 regions were at their limit of intensive care unit beds, and three more were close to it, authorities said. Crews of workers were frantically building more field hospitals. Nearly 15 percent of all those infected in Spain, almost 13 000 people, are health care workers, hurting hospitals’ efforts to help the tsunami of people gasping for breath. Tenor Placido Domingo said Monday he is resting at home after catching the new coro- navirus. “I feel fine,” Domingo said in a statement. The 79-year-old was reportedly hospital- ized in Mexico after publicly acknowledging on 22 March that he had tested positive for COVID-19 and said he was going into isolation. He’d suffered from a fever and a cough. The opera singer’s illness comes after his own glittering career had recently been marred by sexual misconduct revelations. Israel said 70-year-old Prime Minister Ben- jamin Netanyahu is quarantining himself af- ter an aide tested positive for the virus. And in Britain, Prince Charles, the heir to the throne who tested positive, ended his period of isola- tion and is in good health, his office said. Moscow, meanwhile, locked down its 12 million people as Russia braced for sweeping nationwide restrictions. HEALTH officials disinfect a traditional Malay village, in Kuala Lumpur. — AP CareersLesotho Times April 2 - 8 2020 Is taking sabbatical from work worth it?

MAGINE watching the Northern Lights towards sabbaticals as a favoured option for might just ring within on a sabbatical to truly live in a bubble of hallucination that things with a loved one, or visiting the Galapagos work-life balance. Companies, who want to pursue what you love. will come to a halt without you. Everything IIslands, or going on a Trek to Machu Pic- hire and retain millennial talents; are also The possibilities of an engineer becoming a will still be the same even after you return; chu in the midst of your career! The idea feels looking towards sabbaticals as a retention tool, writer or a photographer while on a sabbatical; with maybe a few changes in rules, patterns, as intriguing as it can be imagined; for which and as an alternative to lay-offs. According to is not rocket-science. Passion, inspiration, and and technologies. you need to take a mid-career break. A break the Society for Human Resource Management, creativity flows like water when the shades of is something that everyone craves for; be it in 23 percent companies in the U.S offer sabbat- responsibility and accountability wither off. 5. Do not let a sabbatical overpower you studies, regular schedules, or career. ical from work; out of which 17 percent are The spiel revolving around a career-break When talking about career, there are two unpaid and 6 percent are paid. 3. Relax, rewind, and rejuvenate seems tempting; but it is also up to you not types of breaks that a person can take. One is All that said, you might wonder if taking a Life is meant for all the memories you create to let a vacation affect your talent and work. a career break and the other is a sabbatical. sabbatical is worth the job sacrifice or not; if and live with your loved ones; and a sabbatical Take a break for as long as you wish, and also With a thin line of difference between the your company is not the one paying for your helps creating tons of them. remember that when you return it is a fresh two; it is up to the individual that which break break. There are many benefits of a work- While a mundane routine lets you spare a start. should they opt for. break some of them being. sparse amount of time for your family; a sab- When you are back, stop being in the vaca- A career break is the kind of a break where batical from work let’s you divert your entire tion mode and leave that laziness bug behind. people resign from their current jobs either to 1. Meet and great new people attention to loved ones. A sabbatical is as good as it sounds; only when rest or to pursue a different career, or a hob- Your 9-5 gig typically does not allow you to in- Imagine being with the people that matter you have the maturity to deal with things with by. Whereas, a sabbatical is that kind of a for- crease your circle out of co-workers or your the most to you; creating memories, having greater spirits when starting a job or career mal break; in which the employee returns to already existing social group. Surely, your or- fun, exploring new things together, and re- afresh. the same office or job profile after a dedicated ganisation is not at fault; but the toll that work- membering old times. Once out there, you get time-period. loads take on you don’t make going out after a to know that the things you stress about every- If not now, when? It isn’t necessary that all the companies have hectic day seem like an appealing idea. day don’t have a life-and-death importance We are not bestowed with the elixir of life and a sabbatical policy. But for those companies Whereas on a sabbatical; you get to meet outside workplace. every one of us is going to age one day. The providing a sabbatical leave; some of them new people, get acquainted to new cultures, Such breaks can actually remind you about zeal, the energy and the youth won’t remain continue depositing the employees’ salaries, know about different and interesting lifestyles things that are more important in life than the same forever. How will you enjoy all the while some of them suspend employees’ perks of people, and even more learn something work; like your health and your relationships. hard-earned money if you won’t be having the for the duration of their sabbatical. over there; maybe a new language or a new Also, being rejuvenated makes your new start energy to explore new activities and places? Typically, a sabbatical may last from two skill. Returning with an added talent sounds full of zest and spirit. Retirement is a given, but the youth is now! months to one year. People take sabbaticals exciting, doesn’t it? Do not make a bucket list, half of which you from clocking those 60-hour job weeks for 4. Work goes on — without you also won’t be able to fulfil after 65. It is genuinely various reasons; like reassessing their careers, 2. Let creativity flow Unless you are the CEO of your company, harmless to enjoy your own hard-earned mon- spending quality time with themselves and A person is at his creative best when he is not there is no work that may withstand in your ey on yourself and your loved ones; when you their family, travelling the world, or for re- burdened by other responsibilities or a monot- absence. People will continue working, deals have both, the ability and health to do it. Ca- bounding with loved ones; among other rea- onous routine. When out on a break, you get will continue getting sealed, and meetings will reers are self-made, work won’t stop, and life sons. can dedicate more time to your passions and continue to happen; even in your absence. is in the Now. Increasingly, employees are getting inclined interests; and who knows a realization bell If not you, someone else will do it. Do not — Thehrdigest

Kingdom of Lesotho MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE AND FOOD SECURITY SMALLHOLDER AGRICULTURE DEVELOPMENT PROJECT II

REQUEST FOR EXPRESSION OF INTEREST (CONSULTING SERVICES- INDIVIDUAL CONSULTANTS SELECTION METHOD)

LOAN NO: P164486 CREDIT NO: IDA -63580 -LS ASSIGNMENT TITLE: WATER RESOURCE SPECIALIST REFERENCE NO: LS-MAFS- 161819 -CS-INDV DURATION: THIRTY-SIX MONTHS DUTY STATION: MASERU

BACKGROUND: The Government of Lesotho is implementing the Smallholder Agricultural Development Project (SADP) II with financial support from The World Bank, Government of Japan and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD). The project covers ten districts – Maseru, Leribe, Botha-Bothe, Mokhotlong, Thaba Tseka, Berea Mafeteng, Mohale’s Hoek, Quthing and Qacha’s Nek. SADP is coordinated by the Project Management unit (PMU) based in Maseru.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES SKILSS / ABILITIES The Water Resource Specialist shall be responsible to the Project Director of the SADP Project Management Unit (PMU) • Community leadership and mentoring skills, able to support, motivate and liaise effectively with community groups. and shall: • Ability and experience in workshop facilitation and giving presentation in both formal and non-formal settings. • Play a leading role to the identification, rapid appraisal and feasibility studies of potential irrigation sites, in liaison • Ability to develop training programs and lessons plans with the District/Area staff; • Excellent organisational and interpersonal skills • Assess year-round water availability, possible cropping patterns and prepare different design options for on-farm water distribution, taking into account climate change patterns • Ability to work independently and lead a team of communities. • Consultation and sensitisation of farmers in the Catchment Area on irrigation scheme design options, and implications for construction and Operational and Maintenance of infrastructure and water management; CONDITIONS • Prepare design for rehabilitation of small-scale irrigation schemes; • Renewal of the contract will be subject to satisfactory performance and funds availability. • Identify and plan for relevant land husbandry/soil and water conservation activities in and around the schemes; • The Client shall render the Water Resources Specialist with all such facilities as may be reasonably required to enable • Mobilisation of the farmers for beneficiary contribution to scheme implementation and water fee payment for the Specialist to discharge his/her duties that is office space, laptop/computer, landline telephone, and transport. maintenance of infrastructure works and water management; • Advise on procurement of irrigation equipment and prepare Bills Of Quantities for tendering of irrigation rehabilitation civil works; The attention of interested Consultants is drawn to Section III paragraph 3.14 to 3.17 of the World Bank’s Procurement • Provide oversight and supervision for the installation of equipment or rehabilitation works on irrigation schemes, and Regulations for IPF Borrowers dated July 2016 and revised in November 2017 and August 2018, setting forth the World issue works completion certificates; Bank’s policy on conflict of interest. A consultant will be selected in accordance with selection of Individual Consultants • Provide oversight on beneficiary participation and contribution to construction; • Coordinate study visits on irrigation scheme development and management in the region; Method set out in Procurement Regulations. • Provide contributions to policy development on irrigation development in Lesotho, by for example contributing case studies and writing concept notes. SUBMISSION Expressions of interest accompanied by detailed CV must be delivered in a written form to the address below in person or QUALIFICATIONS by email by 16:00hrs local time on the 27th April 2020 clearly marked ‘’ Expression of Interest for Consulting Services’’ • Bachelor’s Degree in a relevant field such as Irrigation engineering, Agricultural engineering, Rural Engineering, Soil LS- MAFS-161819-CS-INDV. and Water Resources Management. To: Project Manager-SADP Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security REQUIRED EXPERIENCE Department of Livestock Services -Moshoeshoe 11 • At least 5 years of professional experience in irrigation development; P.O. Box 24 • Ability to design small-scale irrigation schemes and design of rehabilitation of on-farm water management systems; Maseru 100 Lesotho. • Experience with designing and supporting farmer-managed Irrigation schemes (WUAs) Email: [email protected] copied to [email protected] • Ability to work in multi-disciplinary teams; Only shortlisted candidates will be notified. 34 Jobs & Tenders Lesotho Times April 2 - 8 2020

IN THE HIFH COURT OF LESOTHO ESTATE NOTICE HELD AT MASERU CIV/T/649/2019 Estate Late Matheresia Monongoaha In the matter between: MAMOLISE SELLO (nee: Motsetsela) PLAINTIFF AND Notice is hereby given in terms of section 34 of the MOSALA SELLO DEFENDANT administration of estates proclamation No.19 of 1935 calling upon all heirs, legatees and creditors of the RESTITUTION ORDER deceased to attend a meeting before the Master of BEFORE: HIS LORDSHIP MOKHESI A.J the High Court, in Quthing on Tuesday 7th April 2020 ON THE: 18TH DAY OF MARCH 2020 at 9:00 a.m for the purpose of: HAVING READ PAPERS FILED OF RECORD AND Proposing some person(s) to be appointed by the HAVING HEARD COUNSEL FOR THE PLAINTIFF Master as Executor Dative. AND DATED AT QUTHING THIS 3RD DAY OF MARCH, 2020. HAVING EVIDENCE LED BY THE PLAINTIFF IT IS HEREBY ORDERED THAT: Master of the High Court Office The defendant should restore conjugal rights to the Plaintiff on or before Upper Moyeni, near Magistrate’s Court the 20th day of APRIL 2020 and failure to comply therewith Defendant Quthing 700 should show cause on the 22ND of APRIL 2020 why a decree of divorce should not be granted against him. M. Lebeta Buzi (Mrs) Assistant Master of the High Court - Quthing BY ORDER OF COURT

Kingdom of Lesotho MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE AND FOOD SECURITY SMALLHOLDER AGRICULTURE DEVELOPMENT PROJECT II

REQUEST FOR EXPRESSION OF INTEREST (CONSULTING SERVICES- INDIVIDUAL CONSULTANTS SELECTION METHOD)

LOAN NO: P164486 CREDIT NO: IDA -63580 -LS ASSIGNMENT TITLE: NUTRITION SPECIALIST REFERENCE NO: LS-MAFS-166202-CS-INDV DURATION: THIRTY-SIX MONTHS DUTY STATION: MASERU

BACKGROUND The Government of Lesotho is implementing the Smallholder Agricultural Development Project (SADP) 2 with financial support from the World Bank, Government of Japan and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD). The project covers ten districts – Maseru, Leribe, Botha-Bothe, Mokhotlong, Thaba-Tseka, Berea Mafeteng, Mohale’sHoek, Quthing and Qacha’sNek. SADP is coordinated by the Project Management unit (PMU) based in Maseru.

The SADP II has been designed to harness triple wins, through supporting climate smart agriculture, commercialization and nutrition sensitive agriculture. Central for achieving objectives on nutrition is to create mass awareness on nutrition at national and local levels to influence adoption and behavior change and at the same time supporting the agri-food sector to promote production of nutritious foods. This will involve an aligned approach to promoting the production and consumption of nutritious foods strategic campaigns at national, advocating for the consumption of nutritious foods, improving the capacity of farmers and extension workers on nutrition sensitive agriculture, supporting investments through matching grants in order to achieve improved nutrition among smallholder farmers, and working closely with processors on nutrition standards. The Nutrition Specialist will be responsible to oversee nutrition work of the SADP II, and ensure effective planning, execution, monitoring and reporting of activities at various levels.

The Nutrition Specialist will report to the SADP II Project Manager. He/She will work closely with key partners including Food and Nutrition Coordination Office (FNCO), NGOs contracted to undertake awareness campaigns, Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, Nutrition Unit and Local Authorities.

DUTIES QUALIFICATIONS . Lead in the design and development of nutrition activities under the project, as part of project • At least a post graduate degree in Nutrition, Food Policy, Public Health Policy, Agriculture, or related annual work plan and budget. development fields; . Lead in the implementation of specific and/or nutrition-sensitive activities in the project intervention area as well as reporting on progress, lessons and challenges. EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS . Work closely with the Food and Nutrition Coordination Office (FNCO), to provide guidance in the • At least 10 years of relevant work experience, of which at least 5 years on nutrition specific and/or execution of the national advocacy campaigns on nutrition, as well as development ofindustry nutrition sensitive agriculture, including food and nutrition outreach programs, behavioral change guidelines, while working closely with the lead NGO to champion implementation of nutrition and grants. activities. • Good knowledge of nutrition work in Lesotho, including related nutrition platforms e.g. SUN . Work closely and guide the Department of Nutrition and Home Economics in the Ministry of Movement, technical working groups, task forces etc. Agriculture and Food Security towards promotion of nutrition work, including supporting in • Experience in managing implementing partners (NGOs, Government, Private Sector), related to backstopping nutrition clubs and ensuring that various capacity gaps are unveiled and addressed by nutrition interventions. the project. • Good knowledge of the monitoring and evaluation of nutritional interventions, including key . Participate in various nutrition coordination work, nutrition/SUN sector review, technical working indicators to track progress. groups and related platforms. • Good command of English. . Support the monitoring and evaluation specialist, on collection of indicators related to nutrition, as • Good knowledge of government systems and devolution/implementation of nutrition work at local part of the project results framework, and supporting development of tools to collect such indicators. and district level . Monitor and evaluate the implementation of nutrition sensitive activities and write regular monitoring reports. CONDITIONS . Oversee the independent NGOs to champion awareness and campaigns on nutrition, including • Renewal of the contract will be subject to satisfactory performance and funds availability. development of key messages, IECs and capacity building materials. • The Client shall render the Specialist with all such facilities as may be reasonably required to enable • Strengthen the technical knowledge of stakeholders in the implementation of the project on the the Specialist to discharge his/her duties that is office space, laptop/computer, landline telephone, forms and determinants of malnutrition, and how the agri-food sector can contribute to improving and transport. nutrition; The attention of interested Consultants is drawn to Section III paragraph 3.14 to 3.17 of theWorld • As part of strengthening the synergy of interventions, the Nutrition Specialist will serve asan Bank’s Procurement Regulations for IPF Borrowers dated July 2016 and revised in November 2017 and interface between the Projects implementing NGO/Firm and the Department of Nutrition and Home August 2018, setting forth the World Bank’s policy on conflict of interest. A consultant will be selected in Economics in MAFS. accordance with selection of Individual Consultants Method set out in Procurement Regulations. • In addition to coordinating nutrition activities under SADP II, the Nutrition Specialist will function as a coordinator between the MAFS, implementing NGO, and Ministry of Health for the World Bank SUBMISSION funder nutrition project (NHSSP). Expressions of interest accompanied by detailed CV must be delivered in a written form to the address • Support screening of proposals from nutrition matching grant window, working as part of matching below in person or by email by 16 :00hrs local time on the 27th April 2020 clearly marked ‘’ Expression grant governance structures. of Interest for Consulting Services’’ LS- MAFS-166202-CS-INDV. • Coordinate capacity building support for the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, particularly area nutrition technical officers and extension agents, while linking such support with those To: Project Manager-SADP supported by other donors/projects. Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security • Support integration of nutrition component within the climate smart agriculture interventions Department of Livestock Services -Moshoeshoe 11 delivered through farmer field schools, and related advisory services. P.O.Box 24 • Ensuring interface with Japanese authorities, working with Project Manager to update them on Maseru 100 Lesotho. project progress (PRHD grant), and ensuring adherence of associated donor visibility requirements. Email: [email protected] copied to [email protected] Only shortlisted candidates will be notified. April 2 - 8 2020 Lesotho Times Jobs & Tenders 35

ADVANCED LIFE SUPPORT - LETSENG MINE (FIXED TERM CONTRACT) Advertising Reference Number: ER24_50241 Requirements: A qualification as an Advanced Life Support Practitioner (CCA, Ndip) essential. Professional registration with the HPCSA as an ALS/ Paramedic. A valid driver’s license (including a Public Drivers Permit). A valid passport. Proven operational experience as a Paramedic or newly qualified Paramedic. 1 years ALS operational experience will be advantageous. Sound knowledge of the EMS environment. Knowledge and application of HPCSA guidelines and scope of practice. Working knowledge and experience of Patient Report Forms. Upholds high ethical and professional standards. Responds constructively to pressure and perseveres through challenges. Provides direction to direct reports by ensuring that individual goals and responsibilities are clear. Drives own development and maximises learning. Collaborates with and supports colleagues in order to achieve shared goals. Reaches sound decisions through evaluation of relevant information. Strives to identify and deliver on client’s needs and continuously focus on the client experience. Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint. Key Outputs: Oversees and ensures operational readiness for emergency calls. Administers patient care in line with scope of practice. Markets and maintains a positive image of ER24. Provides basic shift administration services. Kindly attach proof of your qualification and any other supporting documents. Applications to be emailed using the above advertising reference number to: [email protected] Closing date for applications: 17 April 2020

Kingdom of Lesotho MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE AND FOOD SECURITY AGRICULTURE PRODUCTVITY PROGRAMME FOR SOUTHERN AFRICA (APPSA) REQUEST FOR EXPRESSION OF INTEREST (CONSULTING SERVICES- INDIVIDUAL CONSULTANTS SELECTION METHOD)

LOAN NO: P164486 CREDIT NO: IDA -63580 -LS ASSIGNMENT TITLE: INFORMATION & TECHNOLOGY AND KNOWLEDGE MANAGEMENT OFFICER REFERENCE NO: LS- DAR-142465-CS-INDV DURATION: THIRTY-SIX MONTHS

BACKGROUND In an effort, to fight poverty and to accelerate economic growth and improve the welfare of the Basotho the Government of Lesotho (GOL) is part of the SADC regional initiative that implements a regional project for agricultural technology development and dissemination called Agricultural Productivity Program for Southern Africa (APPSA). This is a six year project supported by separate World Bank (WB) - IDA credit and is under the regional coordination of the Centre for Coordination of Agricultural Research and Development for Southern Africa (CCARDESA). APPSA seeks to promote regional collaboration and put in place mechanisms to encourage technology generation and dissemination within and across national borders of participating countries in the SADC region by (i) supporting regional collaboration in agricultural research, technology dissemination, and training; (ii) establishing Regional Centers of Leadership (RCoLs) on commodities of regional importance, and (iii) facilitating increased sharing of agricultural information, knowledge, and technology among participating countries. Priority farming systems for each existing Regional Center of Leadership (RCoL) have been identified based on a regional priority-setting study that identified top R&D priorities for the SADC region and to that effect Lesotho settled for Horticulture considering the potential comparative advantages that needs to be exploited. The proposed RCoL is implemented by the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security through the Department of Agricultural Research (DAR) in collaboration with other NARS institutions (NUL and LAC). The project has four sub-components: Component 1: Technology Generation and Dissemination Component 2: Strengthening the Institutional and Enabling Environment for Technology adoption Component 3: Contingency Emergency Response Component (US$0). Component 4: Project management, monitoring and evaluation and regional coordination

OBJECTIVES OF THE ASSIGNMENT The Information and Technology officer reports to the Project Manager. He provides critical expertise in IT to strengthen the capacity of the RCoL technical staff, to successfully implement RCoL research projects. The system will link five functions: innovation and experimentation, dissemination and technology adoption, internal and external communication through sharing and exchange of technologies, information and knowledge management and monitoring and evaluation.

DUTIES • Have clear understanding of government policies and operations; • Process data and create project-specific database based on the flows of APPSA projects. • Be computer literate and able to apply basic software for the project success; • Be conversant with appropriate technologies used in the various project components; • Designing of an online interface for the project allowing different project-related teams to connect and access • Be able to mobilize funds and be familiar with development partners and financiers; information for project needs in a user friendly manner. • Be able to work in a multi-sectorial and multi-disciplinary professional setup; • Update project database periodically for smooth implementation • Have proposal and report writing skills; • • Develop and support project-related processes, such as management of scientific data, information sharing Proven managing skills and have a good understanding of participatory approaches to activity-based planning, budgeting and accounting; electronic platforms, data mapping and merging • Full command in planning and budgeting as well as of M&E; • Recommend and manage appropriate network, software development and database administration. • Have strong leadership, training and communication skills. • Responsible for identifying, managing, packaging and disseminating key information and advance scientific information materials REPORTING • Develop database of all RCoL research related information to ensure that lessons learned are systematically Information & technology and knowledge management Officer will directly report to the Project Manager. captured, shared, and used efficiently. CONDITIONS • Create a mechanism for capturing and documenting key successful research interventions of the RCol for • Renewal of the contract will be subject to satisfactory performance and funds availability. dissemination to stakeholders’ audience. • The Client shall render the Consultant with all such facilities as may be reasonably required to enable the Consultant • Manage knowledge and information sharing events including seminars, conferences and peer learning sessions. to discharge his/her duties that is office space, laptop/computer, landline telephone, and transport. Provide IT backstopping and guidance to RCoL (Main Station and Regional Research stations) and implementing partner staff. The attention of interested Consultants is drawn to Section III paragraph 3.14 to 3.17 of the World Bank’s Procurement • Develop and adapt an internet based and other relevant tools for staff to collect, analyse,store and share Regulations for IPF Borrowers dated July 2016 and revised in November 2017 and August 2018, setting forth the World Bank’s policy on conflict of interest. information and Knowledge. • Develop new knowledge and information strategies and IT procedures to increase efficiency, enhance workflow A consultant will be selected in accordance with selection of Individual Consultants Method set out in Procurement and improve research work. Regulations. • Assist with the installation of new hardware and software and help train employees on its efficient use. • Work with external partners, including consultants, NARS institutions, APPSA countries in the region and CCARDESA SUBMISSION to put up the most appropriate system or integration of multiple systems. Expressions of interest accompanied by detailed CV must be delivered in a written form to the address below in person or by email by 16:00 hrs local time on the27th/04/ 2020 clearly marked ‘’ Expression of Interest for Consulting Services’’ • Ensure a robust network and software system as well as efficient database administration. LS- DAR-142465 -CS-INDV.

QUALIFICATIONS To: Project Manager-SADP • MSc. in Information Technology, Information and Knowledge Management, Computer Science or related field. Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security • Excellent IT, software applications, computer hardware and communication skills Department of Livestock Services -Moshoeshoe 11 • Proven track record of maintaining IT structural integrity. P.O. Box 24 EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS Maseru 100 Lesotho. • Experience in Project Planning and Management and/or working in any multilateral funding agency will be an Email: [email protected] copied to [email protected] added advantage. • Be a professional of high standing; Only shortlisted candidates will be notified. 36 Jobs & Tenders Lesotho Times April 2 - 8 2020

GOVERNMENT OF LESOTHO

THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE AND FOOD SECURITY Advertise with us TENDER NOTICE and reach millions The Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security invites tenders from eligible bidders (manufacturers or accredited Blenders or dealers) for the supply of fertilizer, Seeds and Pesticides for 2020/2021 financial Year.

Tender Issuance and Submission Tender is issued on the 25 February 2020, and closes on the 7 April 2020 at 12:30 afternoon.

Tender documents are available at the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (Procurement Unit) at non-refundable fee of M3000.00 (three thousand Maluti) from Tuesday 25 February, 2020 until Tuesday 31 March 2020. Tender document is payable in cash at the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security Head Quarters Accounts Office 80 Constitution Roads, Maseru. Receipt issued by Accounts office, must be submitted to the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security Procurement Unit for collection of the Tender Document.

Tenders must be in sealed envelopes, bearing no identification of the bidder and clearly marked PROVISION OF FERTILIZER, SEEDS AND PESTICIDES (REF 2020/2021) and must be deposited into a tender box situated at the Ministry of Agriculture Administration Building Ground floor, or posted to the following address:

The Secretary of the Tender Panel Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security P.O Box 24 Maseru 100

The closing date for submission of the above-mentioned tender is on Tuesday 7st April 2020 at 12:30hrs while opening will be on the same day at 14.00hrs in the presence of tenderers or their representatives.

CLARIFICATIONS

All requests for clarifications on this tender must be addressed in writing to the Procurement Unit, Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, Head Quarters, 80 Constitution Roads, Maseru not later than 12:30 afternoon, 31 March 2020.

Tel:+266 22322741

The Government of Lesotho reserves the right to cancel/postpone tenders before submission and accept or reject any or all tenders for reasons it will advance

KINGDOMKingdom OF of LESOTHOLesotho

MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE AND FOOD SECURITY SMALLHOLDER AGRICULTURE DEVELOPMENT PROJECT II REQUEST FOR EXPRESSION OF INTEREST (CONSULTING SERVICES- INDIVIDUAL CONSULTANTS SELECTION METHOD)

LOAN NO: P164486 CREDIT NO: IDA -63580 -LS ASSIGNMENT TITLE: PROJECT FIELD OFFICER NO. OF CONSULTANTS: SEVEN REFERENCE NO: LS-MAFS-161929-Qachasnek;161935-Berea: ,161934- L eribe;161937Mafeteng;161931:ThabaTseka;161932- Butha-Buthe; 161940-Mokhotlong; CS-INDV DURATION: THIRTY-SIX MONTHS DUTY STATION: MASERU

BACKGROUND The Government of Lesotho is implemen� ng the Smallholder Agricultural Development Project (SADP) 2 with fi nancial support from the World Bank, Government of Japan and the Interna� onal Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD). The project covers ten districts – Maseru, Leribe, Botha-Bothe, Mokhotlong, Thaba-Tseka, Berea Mafeteng, Mohale’sHoek, Quthing and Qacha’sNek. SADP is coordinated by the Project Management unit (PMU) based in Maseru.

OBJECTIVES OF THE ASSIGNMENT Under direct supervision of the Project Manager, the Project Field Offi cer will be responsible for addressing the Project’s Project implementa� on in their assigned districts for all ac� vi� es of Component 1 and 2.

DUTIES Skills/Abili� es • Par� cipate in the prepara� on of annual work plans and budget for the Implementa� on of SADP funded ac� vi� es. • Community leadership and mentoring skills, able to support, mo� vate and liaise eff ec� vely with community groups. • Disseminate informa� on and organize orienta� on session in the district to inform Districts offi cials, communi� es and • Ability and experience in workshop facilita� on and giving presenta� on in both formal and non-formal se� ngs. other stakeholders of the objec� ves, Implementa� on modali� es, progress and impact of the diff erent project ac� vi� es. • Ability to develop training programs and lessons plans • For Sub-component 1.1 and Sub component 1.2, the PFO will collaborate with the PMU Climate Smart Agricultural Offi cer • Excellent organiza� onal and interpersonal skills to support the implementa� ons of the Climate Smart Agriculture technologies by providing informa� on on the Project, • facilita� ng linkages between Non-Governmental Organiza� ons and farmers, and undertake the demonstra� ons and trials Ability to work independently and lead a team of communi� es. and fi eld days. • For Sub-Component 1.3 the PFO will help the PMU Irriga� on Engineer to iden� fy, design, award contracts to the CONDITIONS interna� onal fi rms and implement the irriga� on schemes to be rehabilitated and modernized. This is one of the core • Renewal of the contract will be subject to sa� sfactory performance and funds availability. responsibili� es of the PFO. • The Client shall render the Offi cer with all such facili� es as may be reasonably required to enable the Offi cer to discharge • For Sub- Component 1.4, The PFO will support the development of real � me agro weather forecas� ng and marke� ng his/her du� es that is offi ce space, laptop/computer, landline telephone, and transport. informa� on system and their dissemina� on tools to improve farmers’ long-term capacity for adop� ng climate Smart The a� en� on of interested Consultants is drawn to Sec� on III paragraph 3.14 to 3.17 of the World Bank’s Procurement Agriculture technologies, managing weather shocks and climate risks, and sustaining agricultural produc� on under Regula� ons for IPF Borrowers dated July 2016 and revised in November 2017 and August 2018, se� ng forth the World changing clima� c condi� ons. Bank’s policy on confl ict of interest. A consultant will be selected in accordance with selec� on of Individual Consultants • For sub-component 2.1, the PFO will support the forma� on of alliances for service and marketed related ac� vi� es that Method set out in Procurement Regula� ons. are new as well as to strengthen the sustainable exis� ng alliances. • For Sub Component 2.2, the PFO will collaborate with the Grants Offi cer to target support to commercial and semi commercial off -takers (micro, small and medium agro enterprises) to drive their opera� ons towards more lucra� ve SUBMISSION Expressions of interest accompanied by detailed CV must be delivered in a wri� en form to the address below in person or by domes� c and export markets while at the same � me providing smallholder farmers opportuni� es for increasing th agricultural produc� vity and commercializa� on. email by 16:00hrs local � me on the 17 April 2020 clearly marked ‘’ Expression of Interest for Consul� ng Services-PROJECT • Present the PMU at districts mee� ngs, as delegated by the PMU Project Manager. FIELD OFFICER REFERENCE NUMBER AND DISTRICT’ • Brief district administra� on on Project ac� vi� es on a regular basis. To: Project Manager-SADP Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security Qualifi ca� ons and Required experience Department of Livestock Services -Moshoeshoe 11 • B.Sc. in Agriculture, Agronomy or related discipline P.O. Box 24 • 3 to 5 years professional experience in Agricultural produc� on Maseru 100 Lesotho. • In-depth knowledge of agriculture in Lesotho. Email: [email protected] copied to [email protected] • Sesotho and English Fluency Only shortlisted candidates will be no� fi ed. April 2 - 8 2020 Lesotho Times Sport 37

HIS summer’s European Championship has been post- Tponed until 2021 to allow time for all Europe’s club competitions Euro 2020 postponed for a year by to be completed by 30 June if at all possible, Uefa has decided, as the football authorities grapple with the unprecedented disruption of the UEFA because of coronavirus crisis coronavirus pandemic. The postponement of the Euros to proposed dates of Friday 11 June un- til Sunday 11 July 2021 and the likely summer would be to retain the new postponement of next summer’s format of hosting by cities in 12 dif- women’s Euros to 2022 were two ferent countries, including Dublin, of a flurry of measures announced Glasgow and London, where the on a day when football’s authorities final was scheduled to be played at showed determination to give lead- Wembley on 12 July this year. “The ership at a time the Uefa president, plan is to have the same venues, Aleksander Ceferin, called “the big- the same cities, the same stadiums,” gest crisis that football faced in its Ceferin said. “But if anything gets history”. complicated, then we can as well One of those on Uefa’s teleconfer- do it with 11, then nine or less stadi- ence call with all 55 of Europe’s na- ums. But the plan is that everything tional football associations, the Eu- stays the same.” ropean Club Association, European The women’s European Cham- Leagues and the international play- pionship, scheduled to take place ers’ union Fifpro confirmed reports from 7 July to 1 August next year in that provisional dates have been England, is “most likely” to be post- optimistically scheduled: 27 June for poned to the summer of 2022, he the Champions League final, 24 June said, a more practical possibility be- for the Europa League final. Calen- cause that year’s World Cup in Qatar dar formats which are sacrosanct is due to start in November. in normal times, such as the Cham- “We are thinking of postponing pions League being played in mid- this women’s Euro as well and the week and not at weekends, could be under-21 championship as well,” changed in the effort to get games Ceferin said. “We will have to post- played as soon as governments’ pone both because I don’t think that health and travel policies allow. we should cannibalise the women’s Two working groups have been Euro, with the men’s Euro just one formed by Uefa, one to look at the month before.” possible resumption and conclusion The FA’s chief executive, Mark of the club season “in a coherent Bullingham, said after the confer- manner”, the other “to assess the ence: “People’s health and wellbeing economic, financial and regulatory has to be the primary concern for us impact of the Covid-19 outbreak and all, so we fully support Uefa’s deci- propose measures to help mitigate sion to postpone Euro 2020. the consequences of the pandemic”, TOURNAMENT was due to be held from 12 June to 12 July. We will be considering the impli- Uefa said. cations for all England teams and This year’s Copa América, also our organisation over the coming due to take place from 11 June to 11 days, including any implications on July 2021, has been postponed by representative from each continen- the Euros is the only chance to get ment of the Euros entails a finan- the date of the 2021 women’s Euro the South American Football Fed- tal confederation, at which he would a chance [for] the national leagues cial hit of “hundreds of millions of which we are very proud to be host- eration. The African Nations Cham- suggest making a $10m (£8.3m) do- and all the club competitions to fin- Euros” — in 2018 Uefa announced ing. We will continue to work in col- pionship, scheduled for April in nation to the World Health Organi- ish their competitions. That is not there would be more than €1bn laboration with the PL, EFL and our Cameroon and played for solely by sation’s Covid-19 solidarity response sure for now. But we should now (£910m) generated from 2020-24, football partners on the scenarios players from domestic leagues, has fund, and setting up a global football think about … health, the [families] with €371m for tournament prize that could follow Uefa’s decision to- been postponed indefinitely. assistance fund “to help members of of the players, and the players. And money, and €775m available for day.” Ceferin and Gianni Infantino, the the football community affected by of course, we have to think about national associations’ football de- The ECA said it would be part of Fifa president, stressed in their pub- this crisis”. football as a whole, the whole eco- velopment programmes. Uefa offi- the working group “to develop and lic comments their recognition that Ceferin, in an interview with the system of football. That’s why we cials had been stressing that up to shape the practicalities around public health across Europe and the Associated Press, said: “We all know have decided today that we post- 40 countries whose domestic game managing the calendar to maximise world was the most urgent priority. that this terrible virus that is all poned the Euro and we have 100% is nowhere near as wealthy as those the chances of concluding the re- Infantino said that Fifa would on across Europe made football, and full support of all 55 national asso- of England, Germany, Spain, Italy, maining club games of the 2019-20 Wednesday hold a conference call all life in Europe, quite impossible. ciations, European Leagues, Euro- France and other major football na- season and tackle the wider conse- of its council bureau, its inner gov- We knew we have to stop the com- pean Club Association and Fifpro.” tions greatly rely on that funding. quences of Covid-19 on the game”. erning committee composed of a petitions. We think that postponing Ceferin said that the postpone- Ceferin said the plan for next — The Guardian

Messi says players will help staff at Barcelona but hits out at board again

IONEL Messi has announced that Barcelona’s first-team pact on the game. Barcelona were the first club to announce footballers will not only take a 70 percent pay cut for as plans to request an ERTE, followed by Atlético Madrid, Espa- Llong as the “state of alarm” continues in Spain but also nyol and Alavés, and of the teams in the top division their make contributions to guarantee that staff at the club earn situation is probably the most precarious. This is the latest their full salary throughout the coronavirus crisis. in a long series of increasingly public conflicts between the In a statement also released by Luis Suárez on Monday, players and the president, Josep Maria Bartomeu, as Barce- Messi embraced the need for the players to be the ones to lona’s institutional and financial crisis deepens. bear the brunt of the economic impact on the club but criti- That mistrust helps to explain why a negotiated settlement cised the board for their handling of those measures and for proved hard to reach, despite the players’ initial willingness what he sees as an attempt to turn public opinion against to reduce their salaries. That those negotiations were played them. A statement from Barcelona soon after confirmed the out in the press, with players well aware of the relationships measures. the club has with certain media, worsened the situation. Re- Barcelona announced last week that they were going ap- ports were seen by some of the players as deliberate leaks ply for an ERTE, which allows companies to impose a tem- from the board, designed to point the finger of blame at porary pay cut of up 70 percent on their employees during them for a crisis not of their making and forcing them into a the crisis. That measure is applied unilaterally, as per Span- corner. Messi was not prepared to let that pass. ish labour laws, and was announced by Barcelona before an “A lot has been written and said about the football first agreement with the players for a negotiated settlement had team at Barcelona, when it comes to the players’ salaries been reached. during this state of alarm,” the statement opened. “First of The statement from the players, released on Messi’s Insta- all, we would like to clarify that we have always been willing gram account, accepts that measure and confirms that the to apply a wage cut, because we understand perfectly that players will have their salary cut by the full 70 percent. On this is an exceptional situation and we are always the first top of that, the first-team squad, whose collective annual to help the club when we have been asked to. Indeed, we salaries amount to €391m (£347m), have promised to protect have often done so on our own initiative in those moments the rest of the staff. Barcelona had announced that the ERTE in which we have considered it important or necessary. would include pay cuts for “non-sporting” staff, although the “For that reason, we cannot help but be surprised by the details were not revealed. fact that from within the club there are those trying to put us “Beyond the reduction of 70 percent of our salaries during under the microscope or apply pressure for us to do some- the state of alarm, we are also going to make further con- thing that we have always been clear that we would do,” he tribution to ensure that the employees can continue to be added. “In fact, if an agreement has taken a few days to be paid 100 percent of their salaries for as long as this situation reached it is simply because we were seeking a formula to lasts,” Messi’s statement read. help the club and also to help its employees in these very Far from ending tension at the Camp Nou, the statement difficult times. underlined the mistrust and the breakdown in the relation- “If we did not speak publicly before, it was because our ship between the boardroom and the dressing room. priority was to find real solutions that could truly help the Spain’s football authorities are no closer to knowing club and also those who are going to be most affected by this whether competition will resume this season or the full im- situation.” — The Guardian LIONEL Messi. 38 Sport Lesotho Times April 2 - 8 2020

Moorosi Tsiane

HE Lioli executive must immediately call for a special conference and elect a new Tcommittee that will rid the team of the ‘Lioli must quickly problems that have been dogging it in the cur- rent Econet Premier League season. Different commentators, among them for- mer president, Lebohang Thotanyane, think the centre can no longer hold at Lioli as evi- denced by the mass exodus in the presidium. elect new committee’ Acting president Itumeleng Mpokathe is the latest to call it quits a fortnight ago. He followed in the footsteps of president Tšeliso Tekateka and two vice presidents; Lehlohono- lo Thotanyana and Tšeliso Mou. Mpokathe has been acting in Tekateka’s place. Apart from the four presidents, two other Lioli executive committee members Tlot- liso Mpholo and Tšeliso Lerata will soon be dragged to a disciplinary hearing along with the team’s general manager Hlalele Matobako. Thotanyana, who is Tekateka’s predecessor, told the Lesotho Times this week that the only way for the six-time league champions to wig- gle out of the unenviable situation is by calling a special conference to elect a new executive committee. Thotanyana led the team since 2008 un- til last year. During his tenure, the side won 16 trophies, making him the most successful president. He led the team to four league triumphs, four Independence cups, six Top8 trophies, one Alliance Winter Challenge and one Boka- moso trophy. He said with only three executive com- mittee members left, it was imperative for an emergency special conference to be con- vened. If push comes to shove and the execu- tive committee fails, then the supporters can even call for the conference. “In terms of the constitution, there is no committee to talk about because three mem- bers cannot constitute a quorum hence a spe- cial conference must be held immediately,” Thotanyana said. “If the remaining committee members fail, then the supporters can do that. “The biggest challenge at the club at the mo- LEBOHANG Thotanyane. MOSES Maliehe. ment is that the committee members do not feel they need help. They think they are on the right path.” Tšoanelo Koetle. But Maliehe instead thinks Lioli will be able the executives who have left. He said some of The team’s current vice president technical, He said the committee has foregone the to pay its players for the rest of the season as the new committee members expected easy Moses Maliehe, is in agreement with Thotan- principle of improving the team. per their contracts. In fact, he said they got sailing and have now resigned in droves after yana that a special conference is required im- “They released quality players but failed to into the situation with eyes wide open. they found the going tough. mediately. He however, said they were hoping replace them with the same quality. They lost “People will always talk but claims that we He said they must now improve their elec- to hold it June when the season has ended. Tšoanelo, Kopano and Lekhanya among oth- are in a financial are absurd. We were aware tion process to ensure stability. “Of course, we need a special conference ers and failed to replace them. Instead they that our wage bill would be high and we were “We also need to improve the manner we but the plan was to have it in June as for now took young players claiming to build the team. prepared for that. Lioli will sustain its players’ elect people. We cannot elect people who will we are still trying to keep things together into However, Lioli is a big side that strives on en- salaries until their contracts end without any be in office for just a few months then leave. the team,” Maliehe said. gaging players who are ready to perform in- excuse. “Watching from outside, football adminis- Thotanyana said the situation has been stead of grooming. “We have substantial funds from our spon- tration always looks easy but reality strikes worsened by the club’s huge wage-bill exac- “In January they ended up making panic sors Alliance Insurance Company (M180 000 when you are in the post. The resignations erbated by the January signing of Luciano buys and those were expensive players. That monthly) and also we have a property where speak volumes. Matsoso (from Black Leopards) and Thato Se- has seen the wage bill shoot. The payroll is we collect rent monthly. “Running a football team requires dedica- fuli (from Real Kings). The side also appointed close to M150 000 monthly and that is too “We signed the players that people are com- tion and hard work because football is a busi- new coaches namely Morena Ramorebodi much for a local team,” he said. plaining about to boost the team and they have ness,” Maliehe said. and Molefi Loape as head and assistant re- Thotanyana said the management has con- brought a different dimension to our team.” Former Likuena skipper, Tšepo Hlojeng said spectively. The move has been criticised as it tinued making wrong decisions which saw Maliehe insisted that the team’s wage bill the Lioli leadership must quickly resolve their leaves the team needing funds in the region them being at loggerheads with the PLMC. was not high because of the new signings but problems to return to stability. of M150 000 monthly, a huge sum by Lesotho “They made several wrong decisions and due to high salaries paid to average players. “Everyone can see that there are problems standards. now the PLMC has ordered them to pay Lite- “We have too many average players who within the team. It is always worrying to see Thotanyana said the signings do not make boho Mokhehle (former goalkeeper) M88 000. are paid too much. Our average players earn leaders leave in that manner. The leaders any business sense as the team is spending This goes to show that they had no clue about what the best players earn at other clubs. But must solve their problems quickly because almost M30 000 on Matsoso and Sefuli alone. football administration. we lack quality players and that is one of the they are affecting the team. The former Premier League Management “They are failing to perform the simplest reasons for which we are struggling. We are “If there are problems at the management Committee (PLMC) chairperson said instead, tasks. Before my departure, I had secured working on reinforcing the team. level, there won’t be stability in the team and Lioli just needed to sign quality players at the sponsorship from Lesotho Funeral to build a “Our target it to finish in the top four then the results will show in the field of play. They beginning of the season after the departure club house but it still hasn’t happened today,” we can set new targets for next season.” know what their problems are and they must of Lekhanya Lekhanya, Kopano Tseka and Thotanyana. However, Maliehe has no kind words for work to resolve them,” Hlojeng said.

LSEWHERE in this edition we carry a story on the Lesotho ESport and Recreation Commis- LSRC move to Setsoto long overdue sion (LSRC) moving from their Ha- Mafafa offices to Maseru West and Setsoto Stadium. However, this also proves that brant marketing model and clean La Liga and the German Bundesliga Although LSRC acting chief execu- it’s time the LSRC becomes self-suf- up the space instead of waiting for among others. In the meantime, in tive officer Teboho Malataliana said ficient instead of depending on the Talking initiative to come from the govern- Lesotho it’s excess baggage. they moved out only to save funds so government. ment. Many of the LSRC’s affiliates have that they could channel it towards It’s time that the commission im- Sports It has always been clear that politi- seen many of their programmes die sports development, sources say proves its business model to ensure cians do not give a hoot about sports. because the mother body doesn’t they intend to come up with a pay- that it attracts funders. In fact, sport is right at the bottom of have money to help them. ment plan to service the M500 000 Earlier this year, the LSRC can- the list of their priorities. They see So, now it is time our sport ad- debt to Basotho Enterprises Devel- celled its Lesotho Annual Sports no value therein. ministrators prove their worth by Moorosi Tsiane opment Corporation (BEDCO). Awards (LASA) because of lack of This is one of the reasons for engaging sponsors who can help the However, I applaud the LSRC for funds. It also cancelled several other which our country remains stag- commission fund its projects. this move because it does not make programmes. If only the LSRC had nant in different spheres; the failure On the other hand, it is also im- sense to continue spending funds on decided to move out of the rented soto Stadium by the government. by leaders to see how sport has en- portant to spruce up the image of rent when that can be avoided. premises earlier, then it could have Although the LSRC complained that hanced the value chains of different the association to ensure that poten- It is said that the LSRC was paying saved M40 000 monthly. they were thrown into the deep-end communities. tial partners see value in partnering about M40 000 in rentals monthly. M40 000 saved monthly and the by taking over a facility that has lots In the current coronavirus in- with the commission. Considering that sport has not been prospects of getting funders would of debts, the stadium makes lots duced break for most countries, one Whatever, the reasons are, I ap- getting anything significant from the put the commission at a much-im- of money from hosting different can only imagine how much the plaud the LSRC for moving from government lately, it is not surpris- proved position financially. events. United Kingdom economy is bleed- the old offices. The move is just the ing that the LSRC owes BEDCO such The LSRC has already been given What must simply happen is that ing due to the unavailability of the beginning. The real work must start a huge amount. the responsibility to take care of Set- the LSRC must come up with a vi- English Premiership, the Spanish now. April 2 - 8 2020 Lesotho Times Sport 39 Potloane speaks on Matlama performance

Moorosi Tsiane pendence Cup last December. has improved. Potloane, who was crowned the “I think we are playing better soc- ORMER Matlama skipper Ma- 2014 premier league player of the cer than in the last two seasons. We buti Potloane (pictured) says season, told the Lesotho Times this have just been unlucky.” Fthe defending Econet Premier week that his side has been incon- Potloane hopes the coronavirus League champions’ biggest chal- sistent and unlucky. induced break will give his side a lenge this season has been incon- “We have lost matches that we chance to improve its form. sistency. dominated and also drew too many “Before the break, we had one on Matlama went into the Coronavi- games which I believe we could one sessions with our coaches and rus induced break in second place have won,” Potloane said. were also given programmes to fol- with 34 points after 18 matches. “We have been inconsistent and low at home and I hope by the time This is a staggering 16 points behind that has cost us everything.” the league resumes, there will be a leaders Bantu. The absence of last season’s top turn around. In the past two seasons, Matlama goal scorer, Motebang Sera, who “My only worry is that unlike oth- has won the LNIG Top8 (Mosito joined Bloemfontein Celtic at the er professional athletes, we have no Matela), the 2018/19 league title, beginning of the new season, has access to gym equipment while it is and the Econet Soccer Spectacular also made a difference. Sera’s de- also difficult to train on your own. under the mentorship of Thabile parture, Potloane said, has made a Apart from that, there are now Secker. bigger impact than the departure movement restrictions and we can’t But Tse Putsoa are having it of league winning gaffer Thabile even jog. tough this season under new coach Secker. “This is an extremely challenging Charles Manda who led them to an “Sera’s services are surely missed. situation and chances are that this early CAF Champions’ League exit. He was outstanding last season and will put a serious dent onto our ef- They have also failed to defend the without him, our team has lacked forts to retain the league. Howev- Econet Soccer Spectacular and were the cutting edge. We are no longer er, I take solace in the fact that all also knocked out of the Top8 title. as potent as we used to be with him league teams will be affected and The side however, won the Inde- around. In fact, he thinks the side not only Matlama,” Potloane said. Olympics postponement will affect athletes - Lekomola

Leemisa Thuseho over 40 000 people globally infecting a stag- Among other things, Lekomola hopes and the LNOC. Athletes representatives gering 735 000. athletes will also be assisted with individ- across the world will have their next con- HE Athletes Commission chairperson The games were scheduled for 24 July to ual training equipment, remote personal ference this week and we hope that the re- in the Lesotho National Olympic Com- 9 August and they have now been moved trainers and financial support to sustain quests will be addressed then.” Tmittee (LNOC), Moholo Lekomola, to next year. their diets in the next one year. Meanwhile, LNOC high-performance co- says the postponement of the 2020 Tokyo Lekomola, who is also the athletes’ rep- They have also requested for scholar- ordinator Likeleko Lepitla told the Lesotho Olympic Games will adversely affect ath- resentative in the LNOC executive commit- ships for some athletes who have been Times that they are still waiting for the IOC letes. tee, said athletes around the world have al- under different IOC programmes and were and the Olympic Solidarity to advise them The International Olympic Committee ready requested for support from the IOC. expected to have finished by August this on what is going to happen to the National (IOC) last week postponed the 2020 Olym- “Athletes have requested for financial year. Olympics Committees (NOCs) programmes. pics to 2021 due to the Coronavirus (Co- support through the IOC Athletes Commis- “The scholarships are already in the re- She said they are now waiting for the IOC vivd-19) outbreak that has so far killed sion form the IOC,” Lekomola said. quest that we have tabled to both the IOC to communicate the way forward. Potloane speaks on Matlama performance P39 MatlamaMakepe, Mohapi not under appointed any pressure to the Likuena - Manda fold P31 P39

Lesotho Times LesothoAprilLesotho 2 - 8 2020 TimesTimes January 23 - 29 2020 SportSport January 16 - 22 2020 Sport

Leemisa Thuseho/Moorosi Tsiane

HE debt-ridden Lesotho Sports and Recreation Commission (LSRC) has Tmoved offices from the Basotho En- terprises Development Corporation (BED- CO) owned Ha-Mafafa offices to Maseru M500 000 debt West and Setsoto Stadium. LDFThe sports mother body allegedly dismiss owes Kick4Life BEDCO close to M500 000 in unpaid rent- Ramorebodials. However, the LSRC says the relocation has nothing to do with its debt. Leemisa Thuseho against Matlama last month. Instead, the LSRC says the move was ne- LDF assistant coach Malefetsane cessitated by the need to save its resourc- haunts LSRCDF fought back from a goal down Pheko said he was happy with the win es as their new homes are owned by the to register their first win of 2020 but he said their plans were disrupted government, hence, they would not need by Toloane’s suspension since the rul- to pay rentals. Lwhen they beat Kick4life 3-1 at Set- soto Stadium yesterday afternoon. ing was announced just a day before A source this week said the LSRC is try- the game. ing to reduce its M500 000 debt accrued The game started on a low tempo “We played very well and winning a over several months by moving to govern- with no scoring opportunities created ment-owned spaces. on both ends side until in the 41st min- game under such circumstances where returns“The LSRC owes BEDCO close to M500 toute when Kick4Life Lioli were awarded a we were forced to drop a player that we 000 in rentals accrued over several penalty. Tanki Seoli made no mistake had prepared to use is a good thing,” Moorosimonths Tsianeand the management has decided and thrust his side in front. Pheko said. to save funds by moving to Setsoto, a gov- The Old Europa side was hoping to “I was forced to drop one of the strik- ernmentOUTH facility, African so Morenathat they Ramorebodi can service has re- bounce back to winning ways after ers to the midfield but after conceding, I the debt,”turned a sourceto Lioli said. and has immediately been a 0-5 Sunday drubbing at the hands brought in another striker Mojela Letsie SThetasked commission’s with ensuring acting thatchief the executive club finishes of leaders Bantu. However, the hopes and paired him with Rabi. That worked fourthofficer when Teboho the season Malataliana ends. conceded that soon disappeared on 71 minutes when for us and we equalised.” they owed BEDCO and said the relocation Ramorebodi was this week handed a six months Thabang Rabi levelled the matters. LDF face off with Bantu on Saturday would enable them to make better use of The game seemed destined for a and Pheko believes the win will moti- contractthe little with resources an option they to renewhave. Heand said is expected the to start his duties this weekend. draw until veteran striker Mojela Letsie vate him in that game. relocation was mooted in April last year. headed home to put his side in front “This is good motivation. Our last He“The joins relocation Lioli from has GLADAfrica nothing to Championshipdo with after he was picked by an inch-perfect game was in the Top4 finals and we side-the arrears. Royal Eagles- Instead, where we he moved was appointed to maxim coach- in MORENA Ramorebodi last September. He however, resigned a month later. Morena Moloi pass. played well. If we have maintained that ise the work done with the resources that standard, that shows progress. We are weThe have. no-nonsense Although coachwe owe had the a shortlandlord, spell with Kick4Life failed to respond in the dy- Lioli from January to June 2018 and returns to suc- ing minutes of the game and Rabi con- playing Bantu next and we will take we have enjoyed a harmonious working their game like any other.” ceedrelationship,” Thabile Secker Malataliana who also said. left the team late last nected with a Tšeliso Phera corner to He added that they are looking for- yearThe after National a short stint.Sport Associations’ (NSA) complete his brace. ward to winning the last three games of officesLioli general will manager be at Setsoto Hlalele StadiumMatobako while con- The loss saw Katiso Mojakhomo’s firmedthe secretariat the appointment. offices will be at Number charges continue its winless streak hav- the first round. 186,“We Corner have agreed Cenez theRoad terms and with Mpilo Morena Boule and- he ing last won last October after edging On the other hand, Mojakhomo said isvard expected in Maseru to start West. his duties after LDF match on Lijabatho 1-2. after the defeat to Bantu contributed to WednesdayThe NSAs (yesterday),” started moving Matobako to said. Setsoto The side went into yesterday’s game yesterday’s result despite having pre- StadiumMatobako last said week Ramorebodi’s while the mandate secretariat is to en- sitting ninth in the table and a win pared their players mentally. surewas thatexpected the team to startfinishes moving in the on top Monday. four teams and would have left them one place better “It appears that our players get into qualifyHowever, for the the Independence processes are cup. now on hold off. Mojakhomo’s side has won only a game with certain expectations and because“A coaching of the contract ongoing is performance Coronavirus based in- and three, lost five and drawn four. if they are not satisfied, they give up. duced lockdown. his is not different, so he has been mandated to en- On the other hand, LDF leapfrogged They lack a fighting spirit,” Mojakhomo “We still have cars and a lot of other Liphakoe and Sefotha-fotha and nes- said. sureproperty that thestill team at Ha-Mafafa finishes inside and thethat top also four this season,” Matobako said. tled on 10th, two places better after 10 After winning only three games proves that we were not evicted.” games. The side failed to play last Sun- since joining Kick4Life at the beginning “WeThe believeLSRC was that paying is achievable M40 000 because monthly when you day after its tie against Liphakoe was of the season, pressure is mounting on lookfor use at the of logthe standings BEDCO premises now, should and we Mala win against- LDF tomorrow (yesterday) we will shoot to third. postponed due to poor pitch condi- Mojakhomo although he says his em- taliana said all that would now be chan- ployers are patient. nelled“So, it towards is doable.” sports development. tions. Asked if Ramorebodi would this time around stay Yesterday the army side was without “My employers are not giving me any The LSRC depends on annual govern- pressure but I am ambitious. Therefore, beyondment subventions six months, Matobako but endured said things a tough were dif- star midfielder Tšepo Toloane, who is that is giving me pressure. ferent2019/20 now. financial year after getting only suspended after the Premier League “By the look of things, I am forced to M2“So million many thingsinstead were of the happening usual M13 back mil then- and Management Committee (PLMC) KICK4LIFEthatlion. made it striker difficult Tšeliso for Botsanehim to stay. (left) However, takes on weLDF are found him guilty after he refused to reinforce the squad because even those defenderpastBEDCO that Moabi stage Executive nowTsie at and Setsotohead we hopeof Stadium finance things yesterday. willChief go our take the man of the match award in the players I trusted would do well are not wayMokone because this we week want positive confirmed results.” that the hotly contested Independence Top4 tie performing well,” Mojakhomo said. LSRCDuring had hismoved time out at Lioli,of their Ramorebodi’s premises. finished only“Although second to I cannotBantu and say forhow the much, first timethey in five TEBOHO Malataliana. seasons,indeed owe the Teyateyanengus. However, outfitthey left ended on their the season own volition,” Mokone said. Leemisawithout any Thuseho silverware.

HE Premier League Management Com- mittee (PLMC) has suspended LDF coach, TMotheo Mohapi for five games for assaulting PLMC suspends Mohapi a security official prior to his team’s Independence Top4 Cup third place play-off against Bantu last KOPANA LE RONA month. The punishment is in relation to the case in already served the one-match suspension after sit- He said it was unfortunate that the PLMC’s ruling Mohapi assaulted a security official manning the whichROOF LDF abandoned a Top4 semi-final WATERPROOFING match ting out of yesterday’s tie against Kick4Life. were coming while they are heading into a crucial Setsoto Stadium gates after they were denied ac- against Matlama protesting the referee’s decision PLMC Public Relations OfficerMaseru Moeketsi Ram- tie againstHlotse Bantu at Setsoto Stadium on Saturday. cess to the stadium on arrival for the match. to allow Jane Thabantšo’s disputed goal stand. akatsa confirmed the rulings and M198.20M193.20made a passion- Mohapi also said he was surprised not to have Of the five games, two have been suspended LDF players disputed the goal arguing that the ate plea that league teams should abide by the received a letter notifying of the charges preferred on condition that Mohapi is not found guilty of ball did not cross the goal line. The referee ‘Matha- rules and regulations of the game. Per 5L against him despite the PLMC claiming to have Main Street a similar-Na offence u batlain the next sixho months. rekisa The sus- sets’abo Kolokotoane kapa was forced ntlo? to abandon the match “We want teams to Khubetsoanaadhere to the rulesMain and North regu 1- sent it. Other charged parties, namely Toloane and INCLUDING Metro Building room B6 pension is effective from 17 January 2020 and his after the LDF players refused to return to the pitch. lations of football andOpposite always avoid Puma tarnishing Garage the the team received their show cause letters and re- side’s tie against Kick4Life was his last game before good image of our sport,”+266 Ramakatsa 2733 0074FREE said. MEMBRANE sponded.+266 5975 3060 -Na u batla ho reka sets’aLDF’s Tšepo kapa Toloane ntlo? was named the man of the he starts serving the punishment. Mohapi has also match after that fixture but he refused to take the Mohapi confirmed+266 receiving 5912 the1509 PLMC’s verdict “I+266 only got2740 the 0074 judgment before getting the show been ordered to write an apology to the sponsors of award in protest. on Tuesday but said they were awaiting advice cause letter… I do not understandBUILDING what TRUST happened… the tournament.-Na u Thebatla letter must ho be submittedreka on ts’imo? He was therefore, found guilty and the PLMC from their lawyers on the matters raised. I intend to write to the PLMC enquiring whether or or before Friday. He has also been fined M10 000, ruled that he forfeits the M3000 prize. Toloane “We just received the rulings yesterday (Tues- not it is just to come up with a judgement without half of which has been suspended for one year. He was also slapped with a two-match suspension. day) and the matters is in the hands of our lawyers,” giving me opportunity to respond to the accusa- is expected-Na to upay batlathe fine by theho endWe rekisaof February. at ts’imo? DLM Complex, Khubetsoana, Maseru Tel: +266 2233However, 2224 one match | was +266 suspended. 5343 Toloane 0741 has Mohapi | Email: said. [email protected],” sebetsa Mohapi said. ka ponaletso