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Basotho Mahao embrace fights AGE 4 citizenship First Ladyonfaces arrest dual

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Public Eye

Friday July 6, 2018 Friday December 28, 2018

Public Eye

News News Basotho embrace dual citizenship

Metsing extradition be suspended Healthcould DG suspended . . . asto doctors’ strike fallout claims victims . . . as SADC nudges govt compromise for reforms

after hours. Acting on the basis of this MASERU - The recent sailing through of the Eighth information, the office of the PS then paid Amendment to the Constitution Bill, 2018 allowing a visit to Mafeteng Hospital to ascertain citizens of the Kingdom to hold dual citizenship the credibility of the matter. has raised fresh hope and evoked mixed feelings for “It was alleged that you had instructed Basotho. the doctors who were willing, not to attend The new law will usher in some comfort, patients (sic). These actions amount to especially for Basotho in the BONGIWE ZIHLANGU AND who have worked allowed to hold the country to a total disregard of the provisions of the South African mining sector and otherransom industries RAY MUNGOSHI ad nauseum.

Codes of Good Practice 2008. long enough to qualify for citizenships rights in “We have tried everything “It is therefore on the basis of the that country.

ASERU – Government humanly possible to engage above that you are suspended from duty “It was an awkward to be carrying a South African is willing to suspend opposition, we have not given with effect from December 24, 2018 until ID, while also still having Lesotho documents,” said attempts extradite up.

We believe in the process of investigations are completed and have an ex-miner who also to revealed he had to forfeit the exiled Lesotho Congress of heinclusivity. proved or otherwise the said allegations Lesotho old-age pension rights since was already D e m o c ra t s ( L C D ) l e a d e r “We have limited time on against you (sic). I hope you find this in registered as a pensioner in South Africa.

Mothetjoa from South order.”

SpeakingMetsing in an interview with thehand, media,weMscan’t wait forever and These latest suspensions serve as a Africa to boostcommended chances of ending let orforallow Lerato Mokone the government the opposition to hold commitment signal that the ministry’s the standoff with opposition the process to ransom due to their initiative saying this is a sign that legislators are now management is devoted to resuscitating parties give impetus to them unfounded thinking ofand the people who have put to power. preconditions. SADC the healthcare system which Minister She added thisreforms. was long overdue,has especially sluggish national requested us to give them a Nkaku Kabi has acknowledged has come since many Basotho been working the South Public Eye canhave report that in little time to engage with them. under enormous strain and in dire need of African mines since the 1950s and it was only fair SADC mediators have been We have revised the roadmap, and resuscitation after many years of neglect. that they be allowed to hold dual citizenship so that engaged in shuttle diplomacy we can’t keep on revising it time Earlier this month, Kabi told delegates Lesotho and Basotho benefi t. between Maseru and also South Africa and again as if we are not sure of who attended the 19th Lesotho Council of She at urged government not to charge lot are of doing. aimed reaching a settlement whata we Non-Governmental Organisations’ NGO money for dual citizenship applications since this between the ruling coalition and “I must say this was the week his ministry faces a litany of daunting is going to help Basotho who arelast jobless and the grouping of many opposition parties time such revision happens challenges from living off a shoestring could therefore seek employment in other countries which are at loggerheads over on account of opposition not LCD leader Mothetjoa Metsing budget, excessive bureaucracy, shortage without renouncing their citizenship.

Metsing’s fate. engaging. The train will soon of doctors, and lack of equipment in public Limpho Mosae also echoed the same sentiments Dr Nyane Letsie SADC Preventive Mission in leave the platform. Those who are decided that the process must be bleak page of their history. If health thatamong has aother signifi cant base the party facilities, ills. saying Lesotho has invested and continues to Lesotho (SAPMIL) in this also country. boldly declared that if he commit huge sums ofChairperson money to trainon itsboard youthswill participate in the completed by May 2019. SAPMIL opposition decides to undermineKabi Dr Bernito Matias Matondo reform journey,”KANANELO MokgothiBOLOETSE said.

“He hasthe been in exile.

So, we extension also runs until thehealth end directors everything that comes from fails the to resuscitate other for implementation healthcare system in outside the country in universities and other tertiary of various national health programmes confi rmed to Public Eye yesterday I n s h a r p c o n t r a s t t o are looking for ways and means, to of November this year.

So, we are government and the government a matter of months or so, Prime Minister institutions.

AFETENG – The government while also overseeing running thatAft Metsing was crucial to are theworking Ma kgo t h i ’s sab re - ra tt l i n g, really provide all the modalities for him running out of time. is taking itsthe time to fulfiof l certain Thomas Thabane should not hesitate to er training many Basotho in other this week to the swiftresponsibility ly fire all government hospitalsundertaken and their by fithe re him. ongoing process, adding of moved to feel safe to come back home.

“But lies commitments countries reform where they hold high positionsMatondo due to theirurged a softening Dr Nyane Letsie, the Director said government he was impressed with how the former deputy premier could the with has provided a Basotho.

We aremanagement. already government itself, then we areHe The qualifi cations and they end up getting attitudes caught in aand the need for General of Health, the Mafeteng district Mapota’s appointment follows the Thabane who has previously served as be returning hometrying “soon feuding sides to meet in the in July, we are left with four doing ourselves a big disservice. number of security guarantees, catch-22 situation to rather decide if they should medical officer of Dr Letsie whose Principal of the of apply later” for citizenship such countries but in the than and notin“under an halfway house to accelerate thewasmalso andSecretary we have too as Ministry SADC. We o n t hslapped s to owith u r ex abrupt te n s i o suspension n . So, people should really put their a line suspension disciplinary is yetacts to betogether formallyand explained.

Healthare has on a passion for health care and process lose citizenship of origin. extradition process”. of their countryreform process in with fast-pending the verge of getting a Whether there will beremoval a second compromise. proceedings.

However, this paper reported earlier is willing to help him revive the crumbling He statedbefore that forMatondo’s years Lesotho had suffered SADC Hours approaching deadlines. extension or not is a decision to “It is a give and take process but breakthrough and we believe it Dr Letsie has in recent months this month that doctors working in health system. massive brain drain due to skills erosion to other expressed interview, however, government Matondo concern be taken by our principals, their at the end of the day the benefits will be soon rather than later.” been trying to free herself from a web government hospitals had written a this year, barely less than countries.

This means aft er investing a lot in its had threatened to press ahead at the sluggish manner at excellencies, the presidents, given are for Basotho themselves.In February “To be candid we have been of allegations ranging from misuse of letter to the ministry seeking Letsie’s eight months in office, Thabane fired the citizens, the country ended up not benefi ting from with national reforms unilaterally which the reforms process was asking the government to suspend the conditions on the ground, Government, the opposition and power to using government funds without resignation, among many other demands. then minister of health Nyapane Kaya and their skills so the amendment broadens country’s if opposition parties snubbed the the moving, attributing this to thepartgiven the achievements and our all also other stakeholders need to it (extradition process ) for the authorisation, of which includes The doctors threatened to down replaced him with Kabi. chances of improving economic growth. last-ditch SADC initiative to coax “reluctance” by endorsing government and challenges.” of peace and reconciliation in compromise and put 15, the needs ofHesake a personal medical bill outside tools starting from December if later replaced the then PS Mosae added the amendment would make it them into joining the watershed the opposition to accommodate the country.

And the government SAPMIL arrived in Lesotho this country fi rst.” the precincts of the health ministry’s government did not pay their outstanding Monaphathi Maraka with Kumalo. possible for the country to benefit by retaining process geared towards stiffening each other adding “theyand need to last November to pave is willing to do Maraka that, to suspend way for O nTheir M alist y of2 demands t h i s y e a r,This policies rules. on-call allowances. was after failed it. to Basotho who are highly skilled as they will not lose the country’s creaking democratic get their acts together”.

“We ourselves as SADC, SADC recommended reforms SADC, government and nonThe Principal Secretary (PS) in the included a review of the current on-call make a budget presentation before the their citizenship even if they are also bona fide institutions.

While outlining SAPMIL would not wish Mr Metsing fromhas the Phumaphi governmental organisations Ministry of Health,emanating Mole Kumalo, allowance from M600 per month. national assembly’s socialfor cluster portfolio citizens of other countries.

F o r e i gdual n acitizenship f f a i r s would a n d also successes, the stabilisation to return to he Lesotho under an Commission findings. representatives, Metsing Dr Mapota, acting director Last minute attempts met to with avert committee because allegedly did not Allowing encouragesuch asappointed of clinical asMthe strike failed and doctors international the security whichservices, was extradition process. So, there’s a t ostruggling n d o a d the m i tplanned t e d in South Africa, with a view have the necessary documents.

Basotho workingrelations abroad tominister remit a lot ofof money back situation ministry’s acting director general of opposition announced that will onlyhim be working Lesego Mokgothi on Wednesday conducive agreement a pre-agreement government and the to they convincing to return toAll an ministries are or required to present home and many developing countries like Lesotho for implementation health services with immediate eff ect from from 8:00am to 4:30pm which meant there budget statements before the relevant morning said government was of the reforms, Matondo was that if we agree with Mr Metsing were engaged in a game of Lesotho. are benefitting from remittances by citizens in the Monday week. intrigue and brinkmanship, would not be any “We doctors thethe hospitals portfolio howifthey ready to go full steam ahead with worried that with four this months oncommittees, a number detailing of things, he metatand atmosphere diaspora. are hereby appointed to the aftmaking er hours. was very good, engaging on both spent the fundsto that were allocated to them the Mr reforms but was stalling to will lefthelp forease his mission“You to wrap up with agrees come back home, we the opposition Lehlohonolo Selimo said this actingpoliticians position of theincessant Director demands General ofwhile refusing It is thissides. industrial action that issues in the previous financial year. for him,” movement between Lesotho and neighbouring South mission, give the regional body time to its Lesotho will provide security There are underlying Health Services with eff ect from December apparently saw Dr Sechaba Makiti, District But in May, Motlohi Maliehe who was Africa as well as reduce the number of Basotho being try and persuade the opposition were not “exactly” rising to to recognise any initiative by that need to be addressed, mainly Matondo said.

24, 2018. We wish you all the best in your Medical Officer (DMO) in Mafeteng, then Minister of Tourism, Environment deported from that country while manythe of those in led by the Democratic Congress occasion and grabbing the government.

“Actually, he was given the the security and free passage new appointment and hope you will carry skating on thin ice until he landed in hot and Culture, said Kabi was struggling to fit detention now be released.

(DC) andwould the Lesotho Congress opportunity to turn around their Government, on the other for Mr Metsing to come back. privilege to define or to choose out your duties with outmost commitment water. into the big shoes of his predecessor, Kaya.

The amendment, he added, will also assist of Democrats (LCD) to come back country’s fortunes by “closing hand, was also not living up to The government has indeed the security structure that he may and diligence,” Kumalo wrote in a letter On Monday, Makiti was slapped with Maliehe said Thabane fired Kaya only Basotho secure legal employment and freely compete into the fold. this bleak chapter of its history”. be comfortable with. So, once some commitments it had made undertaken to provide all the dated December 24, a copy of which Public suspension letter by Kumalo for allegedly because he refused to unlawfully award on the market without about Heinternational was, however, quick to worrying “But to be frank, we ourselves that is agreed upon we don’t see to the opposition. security.

Eye has seen. instructing doctors in Mafeteng not to the health ministry’s laundry and catering losing their citizenship back home. issue a caveat that should the also feel that the process is a bitgeneral “In anybody should push for an a way yes, because wepatients“We actually left with The director of health services attend to after are hours. tenderswhy to Prime Minister’s wife ‘Maesaiah The amendment was published last Friday while seven-party opposition coalition sluggish and that there’s need extradition. But we are talking havetechnical been time and again Kumalo’s asking Mr Metsing because we actually is an offi cer who renders advice letter read: “The offi ce of Thabane. the gazette was expected to be available from the scupper the SADC overture the to speed it up on because we are and we believe that wefrom willcabinet find a Basotho thetoboard recognise that hethat hasthebeen aMaliehe, all medical and public healthacross matters the to PSgive has received information who was removed Government Printing by Monday this week. reforms “train will LENA/STAFF soon leave” REPORTERS really running the theministry risk of ofnot the reforms a chance.

To put their former deputy-prime minister health. doctors in Mafeteng wherein you are a in August, is the chairperson of the ruling Continued on page 8 them behind, as they cannot be meeting our deadline. together inwith order toDMO turn have this nottwice leader of a political HeSADC or shehas also acts co-ordinates been and attending to patients Thabane-led All Basotho Convention.

M

M

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HELP US GET IT RIGHT Public Eye is committed to reporting news that is accurate, free from bias, and truthful at all times. We do our best to research and cross-check our stories. But mistakes do happen. If, as the reader, you spot any mistakes, please point them out to us so that we can correct them.

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Public Eye

Friday December 28, 2018

News

Illicit financial transactions irk Central Bank LAWRENCE KEKETSO

L

esotho is fast gaining notoriety among nations that lack controls in their financial sector and unless corrective measures are taken quickly, this could have adverse consequences to the Kingdom’s economic growth, Governor of the Central Bank of Lesotho (CBL), Dr Retšelisitsoe Matlanyane has warned.

Dr Matlanyane delivered this chilling warning at a press briefing CBL held together with the Directorate on Corruption and Economic Offences and the Lesotho Mounted Police Service’s Financial Intelligence Unit.

“We have been warned and if things do not change, Lesotho could be excluded from international financial systems,” Dr Matlanyane emphasised.

Responding to recent reports that the Central Bank appears to have an interest in clamping down on private forex dealers, she said the bank has never issued a single license to anyone in the country and that the company operating as Hlazvil, to their knowledge, has been registered as a consultancy firm and not a financial institution.

She was also quick to explain that there was nothing wrong with any aspiring forex trader approaching the Bank seeking guidance on the correct procedure.

Individuals intending to trade in forex, she added, were not prohibited except where they take deposits from members of the public promising or offering high returns.

The Governor also explained that the Bank has no vested interest in closing down the said company or others with similar operations, but as the monetary authority,

Governor of the Central Bank of Lesotho Dr Retšelisitsoe Matlanyane

it had a duty to ensure that the laws of the country are respected.

“Our main interest is to make sure we protect the law and the members of the public,” she said, further explaining that since the Hlazvil issue is in the courts of law, theirs is to see to it that Basotho monies will be protected and that illegal financial

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activities are curbed.

She noted since the courts have already ruled for the monies to be properly investigated and the account in question be administered under judicial guidance for the recovery of lost investments, the rest will be left to the law to take its course.

Also speaking at the same briefing, DCEO’s Director General, Matsoso Borotho emphasised the need for the country’s laws to be applied, especially where issues of

money laundering are concerned.

Matsoso said the Directorate will not rest but continue to pursue any illegal traces of funds being circulated in dubious deals by criminal rackets, further calling on Basotho to continue giving tips to the DCEO in order to fight economic crime in the country.

The Assistant Commissioner of Police, CID, Paseka Mokete, on his part revealed there are more cases that the police are already investigating which are similar to the Hlazvil case.

“We have two more cases and once we have completed our investigations, the nation will know,” he said, while also conceding cases of a similar nature were very difficult to investigate and sometimes took time to complete.

He gave an example of a case in 2016 where the police came across a case in which three individuals engaged in a ‘stokvel’ operation in Quthing ended up taking deposits from members of the public but their case was only brought before a magistrate court in July this year.

The joint press briefing follows one by Hlazvil Forex Trading last week in which the Central Bank was accused of adopting a punitive approach to the company’s operations.

However, CBL explained that the case emanated from a report by a commercial bank, which as is expected by law reported to the regulator the case of an account which kept on registering some suspicious transactions locally and internationally and appeared to be taking deposits from members of the public.

The said account, with an estimated total of more than M5 million cash deposit has been put on a soft freeze, according to the Central Bank Governor while investigations continue.

More roads for traffic-jammed Maputsoe KABELO MASOABI LERIBE – Peak hours can be a real test of patience in the sleepy but rapidly growing town of Maputsoe, especially during Christmas holidays.

This regular gridlock has been blamed for the poor performance of various businesses in the town, especially in the past week when armies of shoppers descended on the centre in preparation for the holiday celebrations.

“Traffic strains people even before they can get to it. It contributes to late arrivals at work and delays deliveries which all results in loss of money. Shoppers end up not reaching all the shops they desire because of limited time due to traffic congestion,” said Mphole Nokoane who owns a clothing boutique.

Taxi drivers were also not spared the stress and complained they were running losses on fuel and potential fares collection due to the slow movement, pleading with travellers who use their own private vehicles to resort to boarding taxis to reduce the traffic jam.

Being the second largest urban centre after the capital Maseru and located about 80 kilometres north of the capital, Maputsoe has a rapidly growing population estimated at 32,117, according to the latest population census figures.

With only one decent road, Sir Seretse Khama Road, that leads to the CBD from the Main North 1, on a bad day it can take hours for a traveller to cross the Maputsoe/

Finksburg boarder gate.

However, to address this challenge the town’s council has recently embarked on a strategic plan of reconstructing more interconnecting roads.

According to the Maputsoe Urban Council Chairperson Samuel Makatse, new roads will cover a total distance of 15km projected to cost about M200 million, which is funded by the Government of Lesotho through the Ministry of Local Government.

He sa i d s u rveyo rs h a d a l rea dy completed projections that will possibly result in a number of houses in adjacent villages being relocated to make way for the construction of larger road networks.

As for compensation he was quick to note that, that is determined by the Land Act and that people were alerted through numerous public gatherings.

Villages to be affected are St. Monica’s, Ha ’Mathata, Ha Moolisa, Shonapase, Mohalalitoe, Ha Motlalehi, Phukalla, Chonapase, Ha Maputsoe and a small portion of Ha Nyenye.

Makatse emphasised the need for phase 2 of construction to take place immediately after phase 1 is completed, a move he says will entirely change the image of Maputsoe.

He said the current budget of M200 million will not cover all the roads the Maputsoe Urban Council is planning to restructure so he pleaded with the government to offer more funding for construction of an additional 15km of roads.

Public Eye

Adamant Koro-Koro push for Mahao . . . as NEC turns down his nomination for deputy leader post KANANELO BOLOETSE

M

ASERU – The r u l i n g A l l Ba s o tho Convention’s KoroKoro constituency committee is adamant that National University of Lesotho’s Vice Chancellor Professor Nqosa Mahao will eventually book his place for the ABC deputy leader’s post on the ballot paper, despite a directive by the party’s executive committee that Mahao is ineligible to contest.

Public Eye understands that the Koro-Koro constituency committee has gone back to the drawing board and will petition the National Executive Committee before the end of this week, to explain further why Mahao is ineligible to contest, after the NEC unequivocally rejected his nomination.

Mahao was formally nominated by his home constituency KoroKoro last month to replace Minister of Public Works and Transport Prince Maliehe as deputy leader of ABC in the

upcoming elective conference set for February 1 to 2, next year.

But in a letter dated December 20, and addressed to the KoroKoro constituency committee and branches’ committees, ABC Secretary General Samonyane Ntsekele said during its sitting on December 19, the NEC decided not to accept the nomination of Mahao to contest in the national executive committee elections.

Ntsekele noted that: “This decision is consistent with the following constitution’s sections: C4. (b), 6. (m) and C1. (b).”

The constituency committee’s chairperson, Phohleli Phohleli told Public Eye yesterday that his committee will reject any attempts to force Mahao out of the race and will exhaust all internal remedies ahead of the elective conference.

“We are writing a letter to them (NEC) asking them to explain in detail why they have concluded that Professor Mahao is ineligible. The letter will definitely be complete by end of

NUL Vice Chancellor Professor Nqosa

business today (yesterday) or tomorrow,” Phohleli said.

Public Eye could not get a comment from Ntsekele yesterday as his phone rang unanswered.

The cited C.1 (b) section states

Friday December 28, 2018 5

News that for a member to qualify to stand for a position in the national executive committee, such a candidate should have been a member of a constituency committee in good standing for at least 36 months.

Section C4. (b) states, on the other hand, that a member is only eligible for selection into the constituency committee if he or she has been a member of the branch committee for at least 24 months.

“We do not understand why they referenced section that deal with constituency committees’ elections. We are not nominating Professor Mahao for election into the constituency committee but we are nominating him for a position in the NEC. Section C4. (b) is irrelevant in this case,” Phohleli said yesterday.

Public Eye reported earlier this month after Mahao was nominated that his nomination could be aborted as some of the party’s bigwigs argued he is ineligible to contest but both Mahao and the constituency committee vehemently denied this was the case.

Mahao has said he meets all the requirements stipulated in the constitution for a position in the NEC. This was reiterated

by Phohleli and Atang Qobo, a member of the constituency committee.

Qobo labelled scrutinising of Mahao’s nomination by the NEC

as a well-orchestrated gambit to elbow him out of the leadership race “because he has been given a nod by many branches for the position of deputy leader”.

But even ABC’s chairperson Motlohi Maliehe told Public Eye earlier that he did not believe Mahao is a member in good standing to be elected to the NEC. Maliehe, whose suspension was lifted a few days ago, said this at a time when he was still suspended from the NEC. He said he had never seen Mahao at any of the ABC’s rallies or conferences.

“I do not think the evaluations of the nominations to ensure that all nominees are qualified is targeted at Mahao as a person but it is done to ensure that only eligible candidates are allowed to contest as required by the constitution,” he said.

Maliehe has also been nominated for the deputy leader post.

He will battle it without with Finance Minister Dr Moeketsi Majoro and Transport and Public Works Minister Prince Maliehe – the current interim deputy leader.

Majoro indicated this month that the competition was brutal which he said was an indication of flourishing internal democracy in the ABC, but warned that the battle must only play out in the party’s structures and not be allowed to impede government’s work.

6

Public Eye

Friday December 28, 2018

News

We were right about wool business: Phori Wool trade returns to surpass targets LAWRENCE KEKETSO

M

ASERU - Small livestock farmers have already cashed-in over M95.0 million in foreign currency from the first auctions of wool and mohair, since Lesotho opened its own auction floors at the end of November this year.

There have already been three auctions of wool and one of mohair since the start, which makes it a total number of auctions since the Lesotho Wool Centre opened the e-trade auctions of the Lesotho wool and mohair online on November 20, 2018.

According to official figures given by the Wool Centre, to date some 600 tons of wool has been put on auction with a total return of M90.0 million plus while the last mohair auction before Christmas saw some 36 tons of mohair fetching M5.76 million, or an average M152,000 per ton on the overall sale.

The officials at the Centre, however, would to give the totals of wool and mohair collected or to be auctioned saying it is difficult to say how much wool or mohair will be coming “because we are still receiving trucks bringing stocks even today. We are expecting more after the festive break.”

According to off icials at

the ministry of small business development, the sales of wool and mohair have surpassed expectations from the initial auctions.

“We are only happy that Basotho will see for themselves that this is going to be good business for them. We are also happy that we are getting c o m p e t i t ive i n te r n a t i o n a l markets’ prices for Basotho farmers, which is what the government will always guard to ensure,” said the director of marketing at the ministry, Lekhooe Makhate.

Makhate also said it was encouraging that the first full force independent Lesotho wool and mohair auctions were firming at a very good baseline price, which meant the Lesotho market stands in good stead to become one of the most competitive.

Ministry officials said the targets that were set when the government gave the final goahead for the auctions will be surpassed by far.

“We had envisaged M150.0 million by January, but it looks like we had under-estimated our strength,” said one of the officials.

Fro m t h e p i l o t a u c t i o n in November last year the government, with the Lesotho Wool Centre, tested with 800

Minister of small business development Chalane Phori

bales of wool selling at a return of US$708.856 (about M9.0 million).

Also speaking to Public Eye in an interview, minister for small business development, Chalane Phori, said a lot has been learnt from the changing phase of the wool and mohair trade in Lesotho.

“It is clear from the figures that we have been given by the centre that we were right about the monies that should have been coming to Lesotho all along,” Phori said, adding what his ministry has to do is

KINGDOM OF LESOTHO

MINISTRY OF HOME AFFAIRS INVITATION TO TENDER NUMBER 10 of 2018/2019 The Ministry of Home Affairs invites Tenders from eligible and reputable companies to bid for the PURCHASE OF PROTECTIVE CLOTHING. Tender document is obtainable from the Ministry of Home Affairs at a non-refundable fee of M500.00 at Home Affairs Livestock Registration Procurement .Tender responses are to be delivered to the Ministry of Home Affairs Head-Quarters in the Tender Box situated at 2nd Floor near boardroom, not later than 12:00 noon local time, 9th January 2019.

Compliance to tender conditions: - Correct Number of Tender Responses (1 original and 4 copies).

- Valid Trading License certified at source.

- Valid Tax Clearance Certificate and VAT certificate (where applicable).

- Certificate of bona fide tendering must be correctly filled and returned with procurement date stamp and company stamp.

- Tenders which exceed Ministry’s budget estimates by more than 15% and or are less than Ministry’s budget estimates by 20% will be rejected.

- General dealers will not be accepted.

All bids in one (1) original plus four (4) copies properly filled and enclosed in plain envelopes and bearing no identification of tenderer, must be delivered to the address mentioned above at or before 12:00 hrs local time, 9th January 2019.

Specifications DESCRIPTIONS

QTY

Nose Masks (boxes)

800

Sun Hats ( LRMIS branded)

700

Elbow Gloves Leather

750

Pilot Suit( LRMIS branded)

400

Mechanic suits two piece ( LRMIS branded)

800

A complete set of Bidding Document(s) in English are available at the Ministry of Home Affairs Procurement Unit.

to reinforce the laws in order to protect, especially smallholder farmers and small entrepreneurs in Lesotho.

He also said the hard route travelled in reaching the finality of the wool and mohair trade in Lesotho was a good lesson that will ensure that other policies meant to grow Basotho’s participation in business and trade will be smoothly implemented.

“We cannot just talk about c rea t i n g o p p o rt u n i t i e s fo r Basotho to be in trade without protecting them. We are here

talking about the over M5.0 million market that Basotho can get opportunities from, only in the meat industry, and this will clearly show what we mean as government when we say we are helping the private sector to grow and create jobs,” Phori said.

He said it was time that each and every Mosotho, especially those fresh graduates from the tertiaries, should start taking business seriously and support gove r n m e n t i n i t i a t i ve s t o protect and promote business development in the country.

Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (Wool and Mohair Promotion)

KINGDOM OF LESOTHO

CONTRACT WITHDRAWAL CONTRACT NAME: PROPOSED NEW SHEARING SHEDS AT LITSOETSE, SEMENA AND HA SOAI Proc ref: W 6/C113/2018/2019 RE: WITHDRAWAL OF THE ABOVE TENDER The Project Director in the Wool and Mohair Promotion Project wishes to inform all bidders interested in the above tender that is has been withdrawn. The Project Director apologises for inconvenience caused by this withdrawal.

R.KHOALENYANE(MR)-PROJECT DIRECTOR

Public Eye

Friday December 28, 2018 7

News

Chinese team donates M450 000 to Motebang hospital ‘MAPALO NKHELOANE

M

ASERU - A Chinese medical team on Mo n d ay l a s t we e k donated medicine and medical instruments to Motebang Hospital in Leribe.

The donation, comprising a ba tc h o f m e d i c i n e s a n d medical instruments valued at M450 000 was presented by the 13 th Chinese medical team to Motebang hospital, sealing what has become an annual tradition by the Asian nation.

Charge d’ Affaires ad Interim of the Embassy of China, Song C h a n gq i n g, d e s c r i b e d t h e donation as a friendly gesture by the Chinese government and the nation whose timing constitutes a Christmas and New Year gift to the Lesotho government and Basotho.

“It is not the first time for many of us to witness such a donation.

It has become regular practice for each Chinese Medical Team to bring a batch of medicines and medical instruments Motebang Hospital.

“Since 1996, the Chinese government has sent over 150 doctors in 13 teams to travel across vast oceans, leaving their beloved family behind to provide and improve medical services for Basotho,” Changqing said.

Members of the Chinese medical team occupying the front row with Charge d’ Affaires of the Embassy of China Song Changqing and Minister of Health Hon Nkaku Kabi

In the past 20 years, he added, Chinese medical teams have provided treatment to 500 000 Basotho sharing their expertise and know-how with local colleagues and have even gone to remote mountainous communities to provide free health care services to Basotho.

Changqing further noted that among the many efforts to assist Basotho with health services, the Chinese Embassy in January 2018 facilitated a request by the Lesotho government to

the Chinese government which agreed to construct the Maseru District Hospital and eye clinic to replace the old Queen Elizabeth 2 Hospital. “ T h e g ra n d h o s p i ta l , estimated to cost up to M900 million will be a state-of-the-art facility which will remarkably improve medical services for Basotho. It is expected to reduce the referral rate and save patients the trouble of travelling abroad for specialised treatment.

“The hospital will also serve

as a training centre to enable the Kingdom to train its own doctors and nurses. Currently the design work of the hospital is nearly complete and it is anticipated that construction will start in the first half of 2019. The hospital will become another symbol of the strong bond of friendship between China and Lesotho,” he added.

O n Septem b e r 3 a n d 4 , Changqing said, the Beijing Summit of the Forum of China Africa Cooperation (FOCAC)

wa s s u c c e ss f u l ly c o nve n e d where China launched a series of new measures to strengthen cooperation with Africa and assist the continent’s development.

Pr i m e M i n i ste r T h o m a s Thabane attended the summit and also paid an official bilateral visit to China earlier this year.

Changqing said as the two governments start working to implement the outcomes of the summit and the visit, there will be more China-aided projects to promote economic and social development in Lesotho.

D r Malifabe Litaba, the District Medical Off icer at Motebang Hospital, expressed her gratitude for the donation which she said came at the right time given the Ministry of Health’s desire to see Motebang hospital being upgraded to a referral facility.

Motebang added further ex p re ss e d h e r w i s h to s e e specialists based at Motebang hospital and not just at the headquarters in Maseru.

Minister of Health, Nkaku Kabi expressed appreciation for the medical team and the Chinese E m ba ssy fo r l i fe - c h a n g i n g donations to Basotho and was also full of praise for the planned new hospital which will replace Queen 11 whose design and plan of was out of this world.

8

Public Eye

Friday December 28, 2018

Opinion News

From Ramaphoria to reality . . .

MPUMELELO MKHABELA

I

nstitutional strength prevented South Africa from sliding into a full kleptocracy.

Strong institutions – courts, public protector and Treasury – shielded the country from bad political leadership which investors saw as a risk.

Indeed, political risk was at its peak until December last year when Cyril Ramaphosa was elected as the president of the African National Congress (ANC).

It was further mitigated by his election as fifth president of democratic South Africa in February 2018. “Ramaphoria’’ – the euphoria synonymous with his ascendancy – kicked in.

It was disappointingly brief.

The Rand retreated from its early appreciation and this, coupled with higher oil prices, produced negative national mood. Entering recession territory dented the euphoria. Emerging from it didn’t restore the excitement.

Ramaphoria, it became clear, was more of a national (partly international) sigh of relief about what didn’t happen at Nasrec than what happened. It was about the disaster South Africa dodged when Ramaphosa emerged victorious.

Shortly after the evaporation of Ramaphoria, the main issue was how Ramaphosa would go about building his case as a good

KINGDOM OF LESOTHO

leader independently. “Not being Zuma” was never going to be a key performance indicator.

R e p a i r i n g b ro ke n s t a t e institutions, resetting the economy on a growth path to create jobs and stopping corruption would be key performance indicators.

As a reformer that he is widely seen to be, how has he fared in this regard?

To be fair, his reform agenda has only just begun. But having been exposed to his leadership in the last few months, we can begin to critically assess his performance – particularly on institutional reforms.

There are some great signs t h e Na t i o n a l Pe r s e c u t i n g Authority (NPA) is on the path of recovery. The achievement will be partly due to his leadership as well as civil society’s campaign through litigation to secure the independence of the head of the NPA. The Constitutional Court has struck down problematic legal provisions that allowed the president to manipulate the NPA by weakening its head through indefinite suspension and easy dismissal.

Ramaphosa’s decision to include the legal profession in the recruitment process was excellent. (Parliament must institutionalise it). The outcome was the appointment of the highly

regarded Shamila Batohi.

But until criminals who looted public money are prosecuted and convicted, these reforms will remain academic.

At SARS, the battle to get the institution on track is nearly won.

Tom Moyane’s “abominable” conduct in seeking to block the reforms have been met with the necessary judicial rebuke.

The SARS inquiry report has given Ramaphosa a lot of room to strengthen the institution. The reforms are urgent to ensure that no typist at SARS should earn R4m for merely being clothed with a title of IT executive.

H i s d e c i s i o n to re m ove immunity provision in the state capture inquiry terms of reference was commendable. So is his leadership of the ANC on state capture submissions so far: He has provided no option for closing of ranks.

There have been changes on the boards of state-owned enterprises (SOE) to restore sound governance. Other than removing Gupta functionaries, it’s not clear what kind of governance model Ramaphosa would like to install to prevent recurrence of state capture.

He has said the rot went far deeper than previously thought. In which case, much more is required than merely changing executives.

The recent events at

Eskom, where the shareholder (government) and not the board, appointed a task team on the entity’s sustainability, present a corporate governance challenge.

Ramaphosa must be very careful not to replace Gupta state capture model with a suspicious governance model in SOEs. Ramaphosa was fully entitled to accept the resignation letters of SABC board members. But he hasn’t clarified whether it is his preferred corporate governance model that ministers could meet with the staff of entities without the boards.

Ramaphosa has done well to reignite investor confidence. The appointment of investment envoys, the hosting of the investment conference, the hosting of the jobs summit, the finalisation of the mining charter and the signing of the minimum wage legislation will bring about investor certainty.

While it is generally accepted that government solicits advice from ordinary citizens on a range of issues, this should not duplicate work of state institutions.

The work of the recently established biggest consultative committee to assess progress on women empowerment should have been left to the Commission on Gender Equality. Unless Ramaphosa and Minister Bathabile Dlamini believe this Chapter 9 institution is useless.

Ramaphosa’s foreign policy is clearly driven by South Africa’s economic interests. In international platforms he has sought to position South Africa as a good investment destination. He has done extremely well in this regard. We haven’t been embarrassed.

How the expropriation of land without compensation is framed in the final constitutional amendment would determine whether his raft of reforms will hold or not. All he will need is to ensure that an expropriation clause does not allow arbitrary deprivation of property in any way.

The constitutional amendment s h o u l d b e a c c o m pa n i e d by legislation spelling out the processes and institutional mechanisms to make expropriation rational. There must be a system of appeals and judicial review.

The constitutional amendment will be lengthy process that will test Ramaphosa’s leadership within and outside the ANC. So far, his rise to power and his performance shows there is a possibility South Africa could be repositioned for growth.

South Africans are growing i m pa t i e n t a n d i n c rea s i n gly suspicious of political promises.

Ramaphosa’s reform promises must deliver something tangible.

Soon.

Mkhabela is a regular columnist for News24.

Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security Wool and Mohair Promotion Project P.O. Box 24 Maseru 100

SECTION I: INVITATION FOR BIDS 1. The Kingdom of Lesotho represented by the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (hereinafter referred to as the “Purchase”) received a Grant from International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) toward the cost of the Wool and Mohair Promotion Project, and it intends to apply part of the proceeds of this grant to eligible payments under the contract: SUPPLY AND DELIEVERY OF SMALL-SCALE PROCESSING EQUIPMENT. 2. The Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security invites sealed bids from eligible bidders for supply and delivery of small-scale processing. The maximum duration for the supply, delivery, installation and commissioning of Goods is 28 days after the signature of the Contracts.

The bidding documents covers the folowing goods: Items Quantity 1. Exclusive Power Loom 3 2. Rapier Loom 3 3. Wool and Mohair Washing 3 Machine 4. Yarn Dying Machine 2 5. Spinning Machine 3 3. Bidding will be conducted through the National Competitive Bidding procedures specified in IFAD’ Project Procurement Guidelines – September 2010.

4. Interested eligible bidders may obtain further information from the Procurement Office, Wool and Mohair Promotion Project and inspect the bidding documents at the address given below before 08th JANUARY 2018 5. A prospective Bidder requiring any clarification of the bidding documents may notify the Wool and Mohair Promotion Project in writing to the attention of: Attention: Ms Moroesi Thateng, room number 6 Address: Wool and Mohair Promotion Project Department of Livestock Service Old Airportroad, Moshoeshoe II Country: Lesotho Telephone: +26652519400

Electronic mail address: wamppprocurement@gmail.com 6. A complete set of bidding document may be obtainable upon payment of non-fundable fee of M500.00 at the address below: The method of payment will be cash only.

6. No pre-bid meeting will be organized for this procurement package.

7. Bids must be received by the Purchaser at the address specified below, no later than 08th JANUARY 2018 at 13:45 Lesotho time. Late bids will be rejected.

8.

The Secretary, Tender Box, First Floor Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security 80 Constitution Roan Maseru 100 9. Bids shall be valid for a period of 90 days after the bid submission deadline, and must be accompanied by a bid security of M10,000.00 and valid for 120 days after the bid submission deadline.

10. The address for Payment of Bidding Document is Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security Headquarters, Crops Accounts Office 80 Constitution Road Maseru,100 Lesotho Telephone: +26652519400 12. Address for collection of bidding document is Wool and Mohair Promotion Project Department of Livestock Services Old Airport Road , Moshoeshoe II P.O.BOX 24 MASERU Lesotho Phone #:+26652519400 13. Bids will be opened in the presence of bidder’s representatives who choose to attend at the address below at 14:00hrs Lesotho times The boardroom, First floor Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security 80 Constitution Roan Maseru 100

Public Eye

Friday December 28, 2018 9

Adverts News INVITATION TO TENDER FOR TENDER FOR LEASING AND SERVICING OF PHOTOCOPIER MACHINES REF: LEC/PO-890/2018/19

INVITATION TO TENDER FOR TENDER FOR SUPPLY OF LEC GENTLEMEN CORPORATE UNIFORM REF: LEC/PO-888/2018/19

The Lesotho Electricity Company (Pty) Ltd invites sealed bids from eligible bidders to tender for leasing and servicing of heavy-duty photocopier machines.

The Lesotho Electricity Company (Pty) Ltd invites sealed bids from eligible bidders for supply of gentleman LEC corporate uniform.

1. Tendering companies should have the following documents:

1. Tendering companies should have the following documents:

• Company Registration Certificate • Tax Clearance Certificates • Traders License

• Company Registration Certificate • Tax Clearance Certificates • Traders License

2. Purchasing the document and Bid security The tenderer shall be expected to pay M2000.00 (Two Thousand Maloti) for purchasing the document and M5000.00 (Five Thousand Maloti) for bid security in the form of a bank guaranteed cheque.

2. Purchasing the document and Bid security The tenderer shall be expected to pay M2000.00 (Two Thousand Maloti) for purchasing the document and M5000.00 (Five Thousand Maloti) for bid security in the form of a bank guaranteed cheque.

3.Tender not binding LEC will not be obliged to accept the lowest-priced or any other tender.

3.Tender not binding LEC will not be obliged to accept the lowest-priced or any other tender.

Sealed tenders clearly marked “Tender for Leasing and Servicing of Photocopier Machines’’ bearing no identification of the Tenderer, must be deposited in a tender box located at the LEC Management Block Reception, Headquarters on or before 24th January 2019 at 14:15hrs pm. Tenders will be opened on the same day at 14:15hrs. Bidders or their representatives may attend the opening.

Sealed tenders clearly marked “Tender for Supply of LEC Gentlemen Corporate Uniform’’ bearing no identification of the Tenderer, must be deposited in a tender box located at the LEC Management Block Reception, Headquarters on or before 18th January 2019 at 14:15hrs pm. Tenders will be opened on the same day at 14:15hrs. Bidders or their representatives may attend the opening.

4. Compulsory Tender Briefing Session Tenderers are hereby informed that there will be a compulsory briefing session on the 11th January at 12H00pm at LEC Training Centre, Maseru. (Tenderers to note that no proposal will be accepted from Bidders that did not attend the compulsory briefing session) 5. For further enquiries contact Interested eligible Bidders may obtain further information from Procurement offices at: Lesotho Electricity Company (Pty) Ltd. 53 Moshoeshoe Road, Industrial Area, P.O. Box 423, Maseru, 100, Lesotho

5. For further enquiries contact Interested eligible Bidders may obtain further information from Procurement offices at: Lesotho Electricity Company (Pty) Ltd. 53 Moshoeshoe Road, Industrial Area, P.O. Box 423, Maseru, 100, Lesotho Tel: +266 5227 2127, 5227 2219, 5227 2184, 5227 2181 Fax: +266 2232 7647

Tel: +266 5227 2127, 5227 2219, 5227 2184, 5227 2181 Fax: +266 2232 7647 A complete set of bidding documents is available from Procurement Office

KINGDOM OF LESOTHO

4. Compulsory Tender Briefing Session Tenderers are hereby informed that there will be a compulsory briefing session on the 8th January at 10H00pm at LEC Training Centre, Maseru. (Tenderers to note that no proposal will be accepted from Bidders that did not attend the compulsory briefing session).

ADVERTISEMENT

A complete set of bidding documents is available from Procurement Office.

KINGDOM OF LESOTHO

ADVERTISEMENT

UNDP Lesotho on behalf of the National Dialogue Planning Committee (NDPC) Secretariat is recruting a Communications Officer Reports: Application Deadline : Contract duration : Time of Commitment:

Executive Secretary 11 January 2019 Initial 6 months with a possibility of extension Full Time

The Kingdom of Lesotho is set to commence long anticipated national reforms intended to spearhead the transformation of the Kingdom into a stable, prosperous and united nation. As articulated in the document, The Lesotho We Want: Dialogue and Reforms for National Transformation - Vision Overview and Road map and in various statements including reports and communique of the Southern African Development Community (SADC), inclusive national dialogue is the agreed starting point of the Lesotho national reforms.

To Implement the project, UNDP on behalf of the National Dialogue Planning Committee (NDPC) is recruiting a Communications Officer. The responsibllities of the Communications Officer are summarised below: Summary of key functions: • Draw up a Communication Plan for the National Dialogue Planning Committee to increase awareness and understanding of NDPC activities and the national reforms process; • Liaise with the Media and communicate day-to-day activities of the Committee; • Prepare and disseminate appropriate messages of the Committee to various mediums for consumption by stakeholders; • Arrange Press Conferences, Briefings and Interviews for the Committee; • Monitor local and international press coverage and effectiveness of the communication strategy; • Strengthen and maintain good relations with both print and electronic media.

• Evaluate the capacity development needs of the NDPC members on public and media relations matters;

UNDP Lesotho on behalf of National Dialogue Planning Committee Secretariat is recruiting an Executive Secretary Reports to :

National Dialogue Planning Committee through Co- Chair

Application Deadline:

11 January 2019

Contract Duration:

Initial 6 months with a possibility of extension

Time Commitment:

Full Time

The Kingdom of Lesotho is set to commence long anticipated national reforms intended to spearhead the transformation of the Kingdom into a stable, prosperous and united nation. As articulated in the document, The Lesotho We Want: Dialogue and Reforms for National Transformation - Vision Overview and Road map (the Road map) and in various statements including reports and communique of the Southern African Development Community (SADC), inclusive national dialogue is the agreed starting point of the Lesotho national reforms.

To Implement the project, UNDP on behalf of the National Dialogue Planning Committee (NDPC) Secretariat is recruiting an Executive Secretary.

The responsibilities of the Executive Secretary are summarized below Summary of key functions: • Provide strategic direction and leadership in managing the operations of the National Dialogue Planning Committee (NDPC) in accordance with the strategies and plans for the Lesotho National Reforms.

• Provide direction to staff of the NDPC Secretariat to ensure overall effectiveness in meeting policy and program objectives; and ensures the NDPC conducts its operations and financial activities with integrity and in accordance with applicable legislative, regulatory and policy requirements • Lead the implementation of strategies, plans and programs that support the NDPC ‘s mandate and the agreements reached at the various forums and dialogue sessions on the Lesotho National Reforms • Maintain the NDPC agenda and assist in planning of NDPC meetings and activities and ensure timely, accurate and comprehensive of NDPC activities; • Collaborate and build strategic relationships with partners including government, development partners and others to effectively deliver the objectives, plans and programs of the NDPC.

Recruitment Qualifications Education: Experience:

First degree in Media/ Communications Studies, Public Relations or related areas; A Masters’ degree will be an added advantage.

7 years progress experience in communication and media field, experience particularly in awareness raising and publicity campaigns, and documenting lessons for publication.

Please refer to the detailed Job description, application procedures and recruitment qualifications available at http://www.ls.undp.org/content/lesotho/en/home/jobs---procurement.html and apply by sending your CV and certified copies of educational certificates to the below email address; hr.lesotho@undp.org Only short listed candidates will be contacted

Recruitment Qualifications Advanced university degree (Master’s Degree) in Public Administration, Political Science, Sociology, International Education: Relations, Law, or related Social Sciences.

Experience:

Minimum ten years of progressively responsible experience in management in governmental, multilateral or civil society organization;

Please refer to the detailed Job description, application procedures and recruitment qualifications available at http://www.ls.undp.org/content/lesotho/en/home/jobs---procurement.html Please apply by sending your CV and certified copies of your educational certificates to hr.lesotho@undp.org .

ONLY SHORTLISTED CANDIDATES WILL BE CONTACTED

10

Public Eye

Friday December 28, 2018

News Style Focus In The Groove MOTHEPANE MOLAPO

Communication across generations in Lesotho The word communication is thrown around quite a lot and many understand simply as the act of speaking. The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines communication as a process by which information is exchanged between individuals through a system or symbols.

So, what is effective communication in a typical Basotho household? What is it’s importance?

There is always communication taking place between the two generations even though it’s almost always trickle down, with very little room for compromise or debate. Being young Basotho we live in a time where we are all just trying to find ourselves, trying to find our voices, so to speak.

Our original sound and opinions can be hindered by the communication processes (or lack thereof) found at home. But the generational gap cannot be used as an excuse anymore. There are far more important things happening in and around us.

Things that need more honesty than the “I don’t know” easy way out which sounds better than half-truths and blatant lies. Society is changing rapidly which can be both overwhelming and exciting to some.

But one thing we can agree on is that its moving, fast so communication in a household has to change and adapt to that. Parents and guardians are a source of primary information and they have a great impact on how we view ourselves and the world.

This is an intense responsibility especially now because Lesotho is not the same as it used to be; we are exposed to more things than in the past.

Frankly, re-socialisation is needed in our homes as far as communication between parents and children is concerned and ignoring certain topics and situations is not helping and never has. It causes frustration and deepens the gap.

The things we are exposed to spark curiosity and with curiosity comes questions. That parents and guardians are not always comfortable with answering, so the cycle begins.

Only honesty and openness between parents and their children can reduce the gap through having true conversations about the things we see. There needs to be an environment that allows the easy flow of questions and answers at home.

The sort where questions about sex, racism, or self-harm are welcome without fear of judgement.

Effective communication gives rise to trust which gives children a pathway to ask for advice and seek direction instead of bottling feelings and questions inside.

Both generations need to learn better ways of communicating, which involves disagreeing. Being respectful is big deal in Lesotho but disagreeing and being disrespectful are not synonymous.

One can take place without the other.

A person’s voice belongs on the outside, not inside of them. Lesotho’s young generation HAS things to say and they have to be heard.

Matukeng Christmas bash a roaring success KABELO MASOABI LERIBE - The much-talked about Matukeng Christmas bash was a roaring success as the anticipated massive attendance came to pass, Maputsoe-based DJ Scandal has said.

The gig was held at the Matukeng Park about four kilometres from the capital of Leribe, Hlotse.

“We took our chances, particularly on Christmas day knowing that people wanted to have fun especially in a densely populated area. The day was targeted by numerous other event organisers in Leribe but our bash managed to pull a massive audience,” said DJ Scandal who interchanged with other DJs including DJ Buzz, DJ Black Diamond and DJ Tjamisto.

Scores of attendees interviewed by Public Eye revealed that the low entrance

fee and popularity of the park, renowned for hosting various events at the same time, worked together to make the show attractive to fun lovers.

Revellers who came from all corners

of the country and danced non-stop to music were also delighted by the fact that no fights erupted although the event was oversubscribed by youth who are prone to conflicts.

Hip hop artiste anchored in TY ‘MAPALO NKHELOANE

A

lthough he was born in Ha Thetsane i n M a s e r u , Mo h a to Q h oa i , popularly known by his stage name J Mahlanyeng, says Teyateyaneng raised him musically and he will therefore continue to represent the small town.

His music career began when he was only doing Form C in 2009 at Assumption High School in Teyateyaneng where he would perform at school occasions for which he was loved and appreciated for his talent by his school mates.

The 27-year-old hip hop artiste, who is a father, is also a spray painter; a profession he learnt from Lerotholi Polytechnic even though he did not complete the course due to the difficulty of juggling schoolwork and music.

His passion for hip hop was driven by the fact that he wanted to tell the world about the stories of his personal life, the pain and struggles of his people, as well as the way they express their joy.

Music therefore seemed like an ideal platform to do so.

He sings in Sesotho for he says he wants his message to be heard by every Mosotho. His target listeners, however, are specifically the youth which is why he chose the Hip Hop genre.

J Mahlanyeng made his f irst

breakthrough in 2009 when he released his great hit “kea u rata”.

He says the song opened doors for him and he highly believes it made him who he is today.

“I am currently working on releasing my other single called Hlooho ea pere and I am working on shooting its music video with a budget that will allow us to break throughout Africa so obviously it is going to require lots of effort and time,” Mahlanyeng says.

His achievements as far as his career is concerned include releasing an album back in 2012 as well as releasing his first music video on his single “Chelete e ngata”.

He, however, has no illusions and insists that he still has a long way to go because he is not yet where he wants to be.

“My journey was and is still difficult because people still do not know how to separate friendship from professionalism.

Favouritism still dominates media platforms which, to my understanding, should be open to every artiste and not just the few individuals that are friends to presenters.

“I have however learned not to allow that to prevent me from pushing and building a name for myself through the same people that are biased end up approaching me and not the other way round,” he says.

According to Mahlanyeng, the music industry is far from getting where it should since in Lesotho music is not yet a business which he says has to change.

He notes it is time artistes shot videos worth of M40 000 or more so that they could be played on popular global music channels such as Channel O. That way, he says, the world would respect local artistes and their music will earn them a living.

J Mahlanyeng reveals that he has worked with artistes such as the likes of Cjo, Rumo La Koebe, the late K-tha, Fabric, and Khotso Thahane on the production of his first album.

He adds right now he can work magic with the legendary Kommanda Obbs because they are both from the north and speak the same language. From there he wishes to do a track with female artist Leomile because her content is attractive.

The 27-year-old says he looks up to Kommanda Obbs who founded one of the most famous music groups in Lesotho called Lithuamajoe. He says Kommanda Obbs will forever be his number one inspiration for he is very good at what he does.

He also looks up to Letsie Molapo, a man he says groomed him musically and moulded him into the artiste he is today.

He also idolises South African icon Cassper Nyovest.

Public Eye

Friday December 28, 2018 11

Adverts News External Vacancy

EXPRESSION OF INTEREST FOR PROVISION OF 4 X4 VEHICLES TO UN-WORLD FOOD PROGRAMME LESOTHO:

G4S Lesotho, a leading global Cash and Secure Solutions company has a vacancy for a Senior Accounts Receivable Clerk The purpose of the position is to ensure collection and accurate & timeous processing of accounts receivable, reconciliation of Debtors for the G4S Lesotho in compliance to company policies and procedures. The incumbent should be a self-starter and target driven.

Key Performance Areas 1. Effective and timely collection of Debt 2. Reconciliation of Debtors’ accounts 3. Correct allocation of payments 4. Ensure that Debtors Days are kept to the company standards 5. Ensure that monthly targets are met Key Attributes and Competencies

The United Nations World Food Programme (UNWFP) is the world’s largest humanitarian agency fighting hunger worldwide. Each year, on average, WFP feeds more than 80 million people in more than 70 countries.

UN-WFP Lesotho is releasing this Expression of Interest (EOI) to find suitably qualified and competent companies that can sprovide a fleet of 4 X 4 Vehicles.

Companies interested in this EOI must submit completed Supplier Registration forms which can be obtained from the following E-Mail; maseru.admin@wfp.org , Procurement Unit, with effect from 24 December 2018 together with the following information:

Formal Education: • COSC Certificate • Diploma in Accounting • SAP Accounting System Certificate and Pastel (will be an added advantage) • At least 5 years’ experience in the Accounts Receivable position • Computer Literate • Valid Drivers’ License (3 years actively driving experience)

· Company Information including established reputation and history within the industry · Traders Licenses · Number of Vehicles · Proof of Insurance of Vehicles · Place of Business

Competencies: Knowledge Skills • Knowledge of SAP and Pastel • MS Office Computer skills • Knowledge of the laws of Lesotho • Understanding the organisational environment • Supporting and working with others • Delivering objectives Dealing with complexity

Attributes • Delivering great customer service • Sharing and Co-operating • Attention to detail • Ability to work under pressure

The completed Registration forms will be used to pre-qualify potential suppliers who will later be invited to participate in a competitive bidding exercise.

Terms and Conditions The successful candidate should be able to start immediately.

Remuneration and benefits will be commensurate with the seniority of the role and in compliance with company remuneration policy and practice.

Applications may be made via Curriculum Vitae submitted to HR Manager at e-mail winnie.adoro@ls.g4s.com or Hand Delivered to HR Office at G4S Lesotho, 397 Hilton Road, Maseru. Applications close on 4th January 2019.

The Supplier Registration forms together with required information attached should be returned in a sealed envelope, together with information requested above Clearly Marked “Expression of Interest – Provision of 4X4 Vehicles” to UN-World Food Programme, No 11 United Nations Road Opposite Maseru Club Main Gate not later than 12:00 hours 28 December 2018.

NB: Only short listed candidates will be contacted.

KINGDOM OF LESOTHO

Ministry of Public Works and Transport TENDER NOTICE Tenders are hereby invited from registered companies for PRODUCTION OF VEHICLE REGISTRATION NUMBER PLATES FOR THE DEPARTMENT OF TRAFFIC AND TRANSPORT IN 3 REGIONS, CENTRAL , SOUTH AND NORTH. PROJECT IS DIVIDED INTO THREE LOTS • LOT 1- CENTRAL REGION( MASERU& THABA-TSEKA) • LOT 2- NORTH REGION (LERIBE, BEREA,BUTHA-BUTHE & MOKHOTLONG) • LOT 3- SOUTH REGION (MOHALES HOEK,QACHA,QUTHING &MAFETENG) NOTE THAT BIDDER IS LIMITED TO BID FOR 1 LOT ONLY. Tender documents can be obtained from the Procurement Unit Office, Ministry of Public Works and Transport headquarters, Moshoeshoe Road, Maseru.

The date for collecting tender documents is from Friday 21st December 2018 from 0900hrs to 1600hrs during working days.

Compliance Criteria • All prospective tenderers must attach to their tender Copies of Tax Clearance Certificate and Traders Lisence certified at the issuing organizations • Certificate of Bonafide • Signed Bid Form • Correct number of copies of Tender Submission (1 original and 4 copies) • All Prospective tenderers must submit a refundable Bid security of M50,000.00 ( Fifty thousand Maloti Only) in a form of a bank guaranteed cheque or a letter from accredited Financial Institution endorsed with a Revenue Stamp.

THE TENDER AMOUNT SHOULD BE INCLUSIVE OF 15% V.A.T EVALUATION CRITERIA • Compliance to Tender Conditions • Technical Solution (80%) • Price (20%)

NOTE: A margin of preference shall be granted in terms of the Public Procurement Regulations 2007, clause 12(1),(2),(3) and as such tenders.

1. Certified copies of company registration by Ministry of Trade and Industry reflecting shareholding of all individuals within the company 2. Proof of local preference (certified copy of Passport) • 15% margin of preference if 51% or more shares owned by National of Lesotho • 10% margin of preference • If between 30% shares are owned by national of Lesotho, or • A bidder proposing to sub contract at least 50% of the contract to one or more Basotho business • 5% margin of preference in between 10% and 30% shares are owned by National of Lesotho 3. Certified copies of identification documents for members of the company 4. A naturalized Mosotho should attach copies of naturalization documents as proof A TENDER WITHOUT IDENTIFICATION OF TENDERER SHALL BE SUBMITTED, PROPERLY SEALED, SIGNED AND ENDORSED PRODUCTION FOR VEHICLE REGISTRATION NUMBER PLATES FOR THE DEPARTMENT OF TRAFFIC AND TRANSPORT FOR 3 REGIONS, CENTRAL, NORTH AND SOUTH, AND 1 SEPARATE ENVELOPE MARKED FINANCIAL PROPOSAL must be deposited in the tender box 1st floor Ministry of Public Works and Transport, Corner Lepoqo and Senate Road opposite Browns cash and carry on Wednesday 23rd January 2019.

The closing time for the receipt of Tenders is 12.00 Noon for the official opening at 12.30 on the 23rd January 2019.

A mandatory Pre bid Meeting will be held on the 11th January 2019, to address all the issues in the tender document before the completion of the tender process. All potential bidders must attend At the Ministry of Public Works and Transport Board room as per above written address at 10:00am The Government of Lesotho- Tender Panel reserves the right to accept or reject any or all tenders ………………………………………………………….

P.S-MoPW&T GOVERNMENT OF LESOTHO-MINISTRY OF PUBLIC WORKS AND TRANSPORT

Leaders Public Eye

Friday December 28, 2018

Editorial Comment

Are political party splits a taste of ‘the Lesotho we want’?

The evolution of Lesotho’s politics has been marked by unending intra-party feuding, along with leadership crises and intolerance that has led to the many splits that today are seen in the multi-faceted sprouts that do not at all define the differences in our ideological, religious or political thinking.

With the just commenced reforms processes in motion, it would have been more sensible if the same reforms that we want at national level were reflected in our own political parties and other smaller groupings.

The fact that even at the very brink of the reforms process we are already seeing parties at their breaking point and with possible formations of new groupings and alliances or movements from one party to another imminent, is a clear indication that what we may be trying to overhaul is not going to work for the country. This is because the problem is not with the national laws and policies, but our innermost souls as individuals in society.

It is hardly surprising that the former ruling party and probably one of the largest in the country is now pushing its internal fights to a very dangerous altitude, with smaller groupings already joining parties in the ruling league. While this may be interpreted in politics as a mere loss of ground to the opponents, it may also mean something much more unpalatable to our new slogan of “the Lesotho we want”.

When things of this magnitude happen in our politics, we need to start asking serious questions about our political leaders and unless we get serious answers then, as part of the reforms, we definitely need to find ways of not just resolving conflicts but ensuring strict discipline and adherence codes for the management of political parties.

We have to accept and recognise that the democratic freedoms of association, speech, convergence and others come from principles and moral codes that have to be followed and cannot be a determined by a few individuals who happen to be in the party leadership.

Looking further afield at local politics, a number of parties are also preparing for elective conferences and unless they can learn from what is already happening in the Democratic Congress, then soon it may all be a deep dive into the same pit for them when such detrimental clashes of the power struggle could be avoided.

With the hotly contested nomination battle for the deputy leadership in the ruling ABC party already stirring confusion amongst party followers, it may still be time for the party’s leadership to help withdraw the already drawn daggers and work towards promotion of healthy democratic contest for the party’s leadership.

As a nation, Basotho have graduated from those old politics of hatred and animosity and this can be proven by the way the nation has voted in the past three general elections. There is no question that the people shall be easily moved from what they believe is right for the country and unless the country’s political leadership start to sort itself out, what the future holds for the political leadership may not be easily absorbed.

As 2018 winds up and in many of our different aspects of live we start to reflect and draw new resolutions for the coming year, it may be advisable for our political leadership to do the same.

The Lesotho we want is not for a chosen few, but for all Basotho, of today, tomorrow and for generations to come.

Public Eye

EDITORIAL: editor@publiceyenews.com

‘Smart Boy’ Mokhothu is the best thing for DC Guest Column

Continued from previous issue

. . . of succession planning and youthful leaders

DR FAKO LIKOTI

World youthful leaders Mokhothi is not the only youthful leader in the world. Most advanced democracies have elected youthful leaders from Barack Obama who was in his mid-40s and left power in his mid-50s. He was predominantly elected by youth voters.

The following leaders are in the same league as Lesotho’s Smart Boy; • NEW ZEALAND: Jacinda Ardern, 37 (born 26 July 1980) • BHUTAN: Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, 37 (born 21 February 1980) ...

• IRELAND: Leo Varadkar, 38 (born 18 January 1979) ...

• ESTONIA: Jüri Ratas, 39 (born 2 July 1978) ...

• SAN MARINO: Matteo Fiorini, 39 (born 10 February 1978) ...

• FRANCE: Emmanuel Macron, 39 (born 21 December 1977) • NORTH KOREA: Kim Jong Un, 34 (born 8 January 1983) • AUSTRIA: Sebastian Kurz, 31 (born 27 August 1986) Closer to home, youthful opposition like Mokhothu can be found in South Africa, Democratic Alliance-Mmusi Maimane (38), Economic Freedom From Julias Malema (37) and Zimbabwe Nelson Chamisa (40) all of whom have been elected by a section of the electorate more than a population of Lesotho and predominantly born-free voters.

DC boasts the more experienced and long-serving ministers than any political party in Lesotho. It has most experienced Members of Parliament who have served in the legislature for more than a decade. It is for this reason that I strongly believe that when these highly experience and knowledgeable politicians elected Mokhothu now known as “The Smart Boy” without doubt they knew what they were doing.

The Smart Boy was elected unopposed by the conference.

ADVERTISING: marketing@publiceyenews.com

I will not discuss his qualities, the people who elected him unopposed are the best to deal with that discussion.

Honourable Mokhothu appeared to have lived beyond the expectation of his party. He is young, dynamic and charismatic.

He understands fully the needs of the Youth of Lesotho who form the bulk of the voting population. The Smart Boy has achieved notoriety for addressing a rally for nearly five (5) hours, and still captivate his audience.

One such was the Tele rally after the defection of a DC Member of Parliament for that Constituency. One would easily have mistaken that rally for his party leader’s rally rather than the deputy leader’s rally. It was this maiden rally as a Deputy Leader from exile where he delivered a fiery speech full of political content and still captivated his audience. The Smart Boy spoke passionately and moved multitudes to tears.

Since he has started addressing most of his leader’s rallies, he has proven to be a major asset for the party, no wonder all party veterans elected him to this position. He has proven to be a politician par excellence. It is only in time of crises that leaders emerge.

In fact, Shakespeare spoke about three types of leaders; those who are born with greatness, those who achieve greatness and lastly those who have greatness thrust upon them. I want to believe that the DC Leadership elected Mokhothu because he has one or a combination of all the above traits.

Dr Mosisili citing Koffi Anan argued that, “you are never too young to lead and too old to learn”. Namane e Ts’ehla is the best thing that could happen to DC and Lesotho politics and Basotho in general. Those who know him very well, claim that he is Fidel Castro incarnate. The man who could speak for hours without losing his audience, the man whose language is development, education and good health. Namane e Ts’ehla indeed or the Smart Boy of Lesotho are some of the names attached to Honourable Mathibeli Mokhothu the Leader of Opposition in Lesotho’s Parliament.

DISTRIBUTION: distribution@ plogistics.co.ls

Public Eye

Friday December 28, 2018 13

Business News

14

Public Eye

Friday December 28, 2018

Sport News From The Terraces NTHAKO MAJORO

Another chance for Bantu Bantu have another chance to prove themselves in the continental stage despite crashing out of the CAF Champions League last weekend.

A 1-1 draw at home against AS Vita of DR Congo in the first round of the competition last Sunday and a 4-1 away loss a fortnight ago was not the end of the end of the world for Bantu, but the results meant the Lesotho champions would now compete in the CAF. The Confederation Cup’s second 1/16 round draw takes place concurrently with the CAF Champions League group stage draw in Cairo, Egypt today.

It was after Bantu knocked out Township Rollers of Botswana in the preliminary stage of the CAF Champions League before that they managed to book a place in the Confederation Cup despite the AS Vita defeat.

Bantu must, as a result, be proud of reaching the first round of the competition, more than two decades after the Lesotho Defence Force (LDF) FC and the now defunct Arsenal remained the only Lesotho teams to go beyond the preliminary round of the African premier clubs championship.

This is not to say failing to go through to the CAF Champions League group stage was a big achievement. The competition is the most and the biggest CAF football event. It is bigger than the CAF Confederation Cup. Therefore the hope was for Amatšo Matebele, as Bantu are affectionately called, to repeat what they did against Township Rollers when they met AS Vita.

Of course it was easy to say for some of us who thought that would be possible for Bantu, who have never proceeded beyond preliminary stage of the same competition before, to knock out a formidable side like AS Vita who some weeks before they took on Bantu played in the final of the 2017/18 CAF Confederation Cup. We simply relied on the saying that anything is possible in football, and that football has no formula.

But that was never the case between Bantu and AS Vita.

The better side won.

However, my point exactly is that the victory over Township Rollers was the most crucial for Bantu.

If it wasn’t because of that, Bantu would not get to play in the Confederation Cup. Thanks to that hard fought and famous win which saw the Lesotho champions emerging the winners in penalty shoot-outs (4-2) after a 2-2 goal-aggregate.

Remember this is only the third time for Bantu to compete in the CAF Champions League, and is going to be the first in the Confederation Cup. The first time in the Champions League being the 2014/15, followed by 2016/17 and 2017/18.

Bantu just need to knock out one team for them to qualify for the group stage of the CAF Confederation Cup. But now they are likely to be drawn against the Confederation Cup champions, Raja Casablanca of Morocco, or Zamalek SC of Nigeria, CS Sfexien of Tunisia and Kaizer Chiefs of South Africa, among others.

These are some of the teams who are in port 1 going to today’s, while Bantu and others are in port 2.

So Bantu must brace for a tough draw.

Jurgen Klopp: ‘Premier League will be a race to the final day’

I

t’s advantage Liverpool at the halfway stage of the Premier League title race.

While champions Manchester City were tripping up 2-1 at Leicester City, Jurgen Klopp’s Reds were thrashing Newcastle United 4-0 at Anfield to open up a six-point lead at the top of the table.

At the same time, Mauricio Pochettino’s Tottenham made it 11 goals in two games with a thumping 5-0 win over Bournemouth.

So, Liverpool are flying, Spurs have crept up to second and City have seemingly gone off the boil.

Liverpool on fire - will they stay at the top?

Seven points separate the top three, but despite his side’s six-point cushion at the top, Liverpool boss Klopp expects the race for the title to go down to the wire.

“We had no idea about the Manchester City result until after the game,” the German told Match of the Day after his side’s comprehensive 4-0 win over Newcastle thanks to goals from Dejan Lovren, Mohamed Salah, Xherdan Shaqiri and substitute Fabinho.

“We play City soon - if I was them I would think there is only four points because we still have to play them, then we play Arsenal before then as well.

“The only thing that matters to us is the performance and keeping that level of performance. It’s good but that’s all.

Tottenham are flying - they had a difficult summer but they are doing brilliant.

“We are on a good run as well. Chelsea

will win, Arsenal will win - it will be a race until the final day.

“But we are in it and that’s important.

We’re just creating a basis for the rest of the season, and the basis after the first part of the season is obviously a good one.”

Liverpool are averaging 2.68 points per game.

At this rate, they could end the season with 102 points - two more than champions City managed when they became the first team to reach 100 last season.

Will title race go down to the wire?

Since the Premier League started in 199293, the title has been decided on the last round of games seven times - 1994-95 (Blackburn Rovers), 1995-96 (Manchester United), 1998-99 (Manchester United), 2007-08 (Manchester United), 2009-10 (Chelsea), 2011-12 (Manchester City) and 2013-14 (Manchester City).

Only on five occasions has a team sewn up the league with four or more games to go - 1999-2000 (Manchester United - four games left), 2000-01 (Manchester United - five games left), 2003-04 (Arsenal - four games left), 2012-13 (Manchester United four games left) and 2017-18 (Manchester City - five games left).

This is rare territory for Liverpool.

Only once in the past 10 seasons have they gone into a new calendar year at the top - in 2008-09 when they eventually finished four points behind champions Manchester United.

City wobbling - and Guardiola’s ‘worried’

After 19 games last season Manchester City were 13 points ahead of their nearest rivals at the top of the table.

Now they find themselves down to third - seven points behind leaders Liverpool - after three defeats in four games, with one clean sheet in the past nine top-flight games.

No wonder boss Guardiola admits he is ‘worried’ after back-to-back Premier League defeats for the first time since December 2016.

“Now there will be doubts but we have to change the dynamic,” said Guardiola after his side followed up a surprise 3-2 defeat at home to Crystal Palace with a 2-1 loss at Leicester City.

“Of course we are worried [about not keeping clean sheets], the result is what counts, we lost.

“We are together, we will work harder and we will come back with some good results. The season is very long and we have lots to fight for.”

City have already lost one more game in the first 19 matches of this season than in 38 last term.

Yet their current tally of 44 points would have been enough for them to top the table at this stage of the campaign in five of the last 10 seasons.

“We have made an incredible amount of points at this stage and if we can get the same, or more, in the second half of the season then we are fighting to win the championship,” added Guardiola.

“But at the moment, the reality is that two more teams are better than us.”

Public Eye

Friday December 28, 2018 15

Sport News

Evergreen Tjoka to hit 2019 running NTHAKO MAJORO

M

ASERU - Lesotho’s long-distance queen, ’Mamoroallo Tjoka, is set to start preparations for the upcoming 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games next month.

The athlete’s coach, Chaplin Mpomane, confirmed yesterday that the evergreen Tjoka would be focusing on her qualification for the Olympics right from the beginning of January 2019.

Tjoka ended 2018 in superb form, winning Lesotho High Altitude Summer Marathon on December 1 and one Umthata marathon the following week with the first prize being a brand new car.

She had also won several other races before, including the Southern Region that was held in Port Elizabeth a few months ago, where she set a new national record of one hour and 10 minutes.

However, before she won the High Altitude Marathon Tjoka came second at Soweto Marathon, a race which she has

NTHAKO MAJORO MASERU - Bantu are likely to be drawn against some of the continent’s giants such as Raja Casablanca, Zamalek SC, CS Sfaxien, Asante Kotoko or Kaizer Chiefs, among others, when the second 1/16 round of the CAF Confederation Cup draw takes place today in Cairo, Egypt.

This was after Bantu only managed to reach the first round of the CAF Champions League where they lost 5-2 to AS Vita of DR Congo on aggregate, 4-1 away and a 1-1 draw at home last weekend respectively.

In the preliminary round of the CAF Champions League, the Lesotho champions knocked Botswana’s Township Rollers out of the competition after they beat them 4-2 on penalty shoot-outs following a 1-1 goal-aggregate.

Bantu and other teams who lost in the first round of the Champions League as a result booked slots in the second 1/16 round of CAF Confederation Cup. Confederation Cup defending champions, Raja Casablanca of Morocco, CS Sfaxien of Tunisia, Kaizer Chiefs of South Africa, Asante Kotoko of Ghana, Zamalek SC of Nigeria and others are in the first port while Bantu and others are in second spot.

Teams in the first port are to be drawn against teams in the second port.

If Bantu manage to win their upcoming match they will go through to the Confederation Cup group stage, and it goes without saying that they will need to have enough money to travel to places

’Mamoroallo Tjoka will soon start preparations for the 2020 Olympics

won seven times before, setting a record of winning it more than any other athlete so far.

“I want to prepare her for the Olympic Games and my initial plan was that she would run the Botswana Marathon (in March next year) in a quest to qualify,

but since she won the Umthata race she now has an opportunity to run one marathon overseas,” Mpomane said.

According to Mpomane, the winner of the Umthata race is given a platform to compete in one marathon overseas, which

is why Tjoka will get to run abroad.

He said they would only be able to know when and in which country Tjoka would be competing after she fetches her car from Umthata next week.

“I will only know by next

week after she fetches her car from South Africa as to when and in which country she will be competing, then I will be able to map the programme for the preparation,” he said.

Mpomane further said: “According to her current speed she has the potential to win an Olympic medal for this country, and we have agreed with her that the focus from now onwards will be on the Olympic Games preparation.”

If Tjoka qualifies it will be for the third time she competes at the Olympic Games.

However, in the previous Olympic Games which were held in Beijing in 2008 and London in 2012, she failed to rise to the occassion.

Tjoka could not run to the finish line in both Beijing and London.

Mpomane simply blamed poor preparations at the time.

“The preparation at the time was not good but now we have agreed that she stands a good chance to win an Olympic medal,” Mpomane said.

Bantu likely to face Africa’s giants

Bantu FC in training before departing to DR Congo

like, for instance, Egypt, Tunisia, Nigeria, Morocco and others.

Bantu vice president, Molefi Lengosane, said even though his team is fully funded by the Lesotho Football Association (LeFA) for representing the

country in the tournament, the team still needs to have money on its own for extra expenses.

“LeFA arre the one who take responsibility for the team when it comes to CAF competitions but then again as the management of

the club we have already written to our sponsors, other companies and people of goodwill to bankroll us,” said Lengosane in an interview with Public Eye yesterday.

This is going to be the first

time ever for Bantu to compete in the CAF Confederation.

This was after the Lesotho champions failed to go beyond the preliminary stage of the CAF Champions League twice before, in 2014/2015 and 2017/18.

Sport Public Eye

There’s someone to rely on in Lesotho

Evergreen Tjoka to hit 2019 running Story on page 15

Friday December 28, 2018

Bantu likely to face Africa’s giants Story on page 15