Keiso Mohloboli
Maseru

The Democratic Congress (DC) Member of Parliament (MP) for the Mphosong Constituency, Bataung Leleka, has died.
Leleka, who was Principal Secretary (PS) in the Ministry of Natural Resources until his resignation just before the May 26 general election, passed away on Thursday at a Bloemfontein hospital.

The DC secretary-general, Ralechate ‘Mokose, on Friday confirmed Leleka’s death, saying Lesotho had lost a great man.
“Ntate Leleka died in one of the hospitals in Bloemfontein, South Africa, in the late hours of Thursday.
“As a party, we are deeply saddened by this loss because within a short period following the formation of the coalition government (in June 2012), the DC has lost three MPs.

“The party, the Leleka family and Basotho at large, have lost one of the most dignified, humane, wise and loyal MPs the country has ever had.
“We all had the greatest affection, admiration and respect for Ntate Leleka, and we are deeply saddened by his passing.”
‘Mokose described Leleka as “a man of deep faith” whose “commitment and strong values” shone through while he was PS and technical team leader when the Lesotho Highlands Water Project (LHWP) Phase II agreement was signed by Lesotho and South Africa in 2011.

‘Mokose also said Leleka, who was also the DC Shadow Cabinet Minister of Energy, would be solely missed for the “essential role” he played when some youths sought clarity regarding the LHWP Phase II, which they argued favoured South Africa, among other “anomalies”.
“Leleka went all out to explain that agreement to our youths, thereby clearing the confusion,” ‘Mokose said, adding the late MP was truly a man of the people.
“I know Leleka’s family has been profoundly moved by the outpouring of support, love and affection they have received for the past six months that Leleka has been ill (following a car accident). The DC has lost one of its very best and one of its own. We mourn him deeply.”
Contacted for comment, Leleka’s sister, ‘Manthatisi, would not speak to the Sunday Express.
“The media has been publishing falsehoods about my brother for so long, and I have absolutely nothing to talk to you regarding his death.
“I will ask other family members and Ntate Leleka’s wife and find out if they have anything to say to you,” she said, before terminating the call.