Mohloai Mpesi
IT was all smiles as renowned philanthropist and businessman Bothata Daniel Mahlala celebrated his 58th birthday in grand style last weekend at Avani Lesotho.
Guests came dressed to kill, adding elegance and glamour to the birthday festivities held in his honour.
Mr Mahlala is the founder of the Bothata Mahlala Development Foundation (BMDF) and leader of the newly established political party, the Basotho Development Front (BDF).
In his address at the celebration, Mr Mahlala said he established both the foundation and political party to support the underprivileged.
He shared a touching story about his birth, recalling how his mother told him he was gravely ill when he was born on Friday, 16 May 1969. Fearing he would not survive, she took him to a priest the following day for baptism. Neighbours in their village of Mount Moorosi had already gathered to offer their condolences, expecting the worst.
These early life struggles, Mr Mahlala said, instilled in him a deep compassion for others. As he navigated the trials of life, he said he always leaned on his mother’s guiding words: “In everything you do, put God first”.
“It is for this reason that I formed the Bothata Mahlala Development Foundation – to help the underprivileged. There is no other motive but to serve God’s children and make a meaningful difference in people’s lives,” Mr Mahlala said.
“I also established this political party to improve the lives of Basotho, nothing more.”
Mr Mahlala condemned what he described as the widespread practice among local politicians of publicly humiliating others. He vowed that his party would bring a new tone to the political arena.
“Why do we fail to understand that in politics, we are still one nation, Basotho, and should stop embarrassing each other? Our media team is under strict instruction that if anyone shames or insults others, they will face serious consequences, including dismissal.
“I want BDF members to stand apart from other political parties. I want our legacy to be that we once changed the political culture in Lesotho. That when insults on radio, Facebook, and in public discourse were common, it was the BDF that brought dignity back.
“This country, like others, was created by God. We must let Him guide our lives. We must stand firm and ensure Lesotho becomes a warm, welcoming home for every Mosotho. That is the BDF’s mission – to make a difference in every Mosotho’s life every single day.”
BDF deputy leader, Makhele Matsepe, echoed the sentiment, calling for a new kind of leadership in Lesotho and for men of strength, integrity, and compassion like Mr Mahlala.
“I came to know Mr Mahlala through his charity work. I have seen firsthand how he supports people in need, regardless of their religion or political affiliation,” Dr Matsepe said.
“Lesotho is facing a crisis. There are killings, and our nation is under threat. We need leaders with genuine love and compassion to rescue our country.”
He urged Mr Mahlala to draw inspiration from the founder of the Basotho nation, King Moshoeshoe I, known for his love and leadership.
“Moshoeshoe I led with love for his people. I encourage Mr Mahlala to emulate his leadership style. Our challenges today are not due to corruption alone or rampant crime, it is because people like Mr Mahlala have not yet had the chance to lead.
“Lesotho has been led by educated individuals, uneducated individuals, and even wealthy men, but we are still mired in the same problems. Perhaps it is time to test a different kind of leadership, that Mr Mahlala represents.”