Mohloai Mpesi
MOVEMENT for Economic Change (MEC) leader, Selibe Mochoboroane, says Lesotho should not be shocked by the withdrawal of aid by the United States government.
Instead, he said, it should serve as a wake-up call for the country to learn to stand on its own feet.
Mr Mochoboroane made the remarks at the opening of his MEC’s elective conference at Leqele High School in Maseru on Friday. Over 1 600 delegates from 64 constituencies took part in the conference which was still proceeding by the time we went to press.
The leader’s position was not challenged as per the party’s constitution that Mr Mochoboroane will serve two terms until 2030.
The MEC is part of the current coalition government led by the Revolution For Prosperity (RFP). Mr Mochoboroane serves as the Minister of Health in Prime Minister Sam Matekane’s cabinet.
Mr Mochoboroane criticized those who were outraged by US President Donald Trump’s decision to cut aid to Lesotho, saying the country should instead use the moment to become more self-reliant.
“President Trump is sending a strong message to African leaders: stop relying on foreign aid and start delivering on your promises,” Mr Mochoboroane said.
“When Trump campaigned, he told his people what he would do and he delivered in the first 100 days. So, we cannot be shocked that he is doing exactly what he said he would.”
The US administration has cancelled the $300 million Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) aid package to Lesotho and imposed a steep 50 percent tariff on Lesotho’s exports, which has been suspended for 90 days to allow negotiations.
Mr Mochoboroane urged Basotho leaders to use this moment as motivation to strengthen the local economy and improve service delivery. “It’s time to wake up from our slumber,” he said.
Turning to party issues, Mr Mochoboroane urged his party to remain united and warned against the factionalism that had torn other political parties apart.
He said internal party contests should not breed breakaway formations from those who would have lost elections.
“This year, I have heard of groups called Mafielo, Pholoho, and Hoboro. I don’t know what those names mean, but I know this: we are one party. Not everyone can win. There will always be a winner and a loser. What matters is that we stay united.”
Mr Mochoboroane confirmed that this will be his last term as MEC leader. According to Section 9.1.3 of the party’s constitution, “The leader shall be the overseer of the NEC and shall hold office for only two terms”.
“The best dancer knows when to leave the stage. The year 2030 will be my time to step aside and support the next leader.”
He reminded delegates that the NEC they were electing would be responsible for leading the party through the next general elections, expected in 2027 or 2028.
“We are entering a transitional period of leadership. Let’s approach it with clear minds. Make decisions with reason, not emotion. That’s the only way to avoid the chaos that has plagued other parties.”
Without naming him directly, Mr Mochoboroane took aim at Basotho Covenant Movement (BCM) leader, Reverand T?epo Lipholo, who has been spearheading a controversial campaign to reclaim Lesotho’s lands he claims were “stolen” by South Africa, particularly the Free State province.
While Mochoboroane said he respects the idea of reclaiming historical territory, he strongly opposed the way the issue had been handled by Dr Lipholo. He accused Dr Lipholo of disrespecting King Letsie III.