…as more members jump ship to join SR

Moroke Sekoboto

More prominent members of the Democratic Congress (DC) have defected to join the Socialist Revolutionaries (SR).

SR leader, Advocate Teboho Mojapela, welcomed new members from DC, the Basotho Action Party (BAP), the Basotho National Party (BNP), and the Revolution for Prosperity (RFP) at Cyaara Guest House on Thursday.

Among the defectors is Adv Mohau Tšilo, who represented DC for the Korokoro constituency in the 2022 elections, finishing second behind the RFP candidate and ahead of BAP leader Professor Nqosa Mahao. Other notable DC defectors include Katleho Manasi, who served as the DC Youth League Deputy Secretary for the Qoaling constituency as well as Rabohlokoa Khoaeane, an ordinary DC member.

They were also joined by Motheea Mpharoane who represented BAP in the 2022 general elections but lost the Thetsane constituency to RFP’s Nthati Moorosi, Retšelisitsoe Chabane – an RFP councillor for Maliepetsane’s Khotla Electoral Division, David Letela – the former BNP public relations officer and current RFP member, and Thabo Ndabe from BNP.

All six defectors are seen as influential figures within their communities.

Recently, former DC public relations officer, Bothata Mahlala, left the party to form his own, while another key DC member, Peiso Kelane, the Maletsunyane legislator, defected to RFP last week.

Adv Mojapela expressed excitement at the arrival of the new members, noting their expertise in addressing critical issues facing the country, including corruption, high crime rates, and poverty. He said Lesotho could be rescued from its current situation with strong, compassionate, brave, accountable, and wise leadership.

“We live in an unstable country where there is no peace and love because a few people benefit from our country’s resources. These people have stolen from Basotho’s wealth, leaving many in poverty. Basotho are suffering because of politicians and companies that have crippled our economy,” said Adv Mojapela.

“The weak economy has led to a rise in crime. We are grateful that you have joined us to help fight corruption, which has weakened our economy. We have adequate resources that are sufficient for every Mosotho to benefit. Lesotho needs a visionary leader who is brave, strong, trustworthy, compassionate, and capable of generating new ideas. We welcome you because you are leaders in your own right—help us fight corruption and create a better Lesotho.”

One of the defectors, Adv Tšilo, said his supporters had encouraged him to find a party that would better help him fulfill his purpose. He clarified that his decision to leave DC was not rushed and that he took time to make the choice to join SR. He said his departure was influenced by the needs of the people he represented.

“I didn’t make a hasty decision; I did my part for DC. I left because I realized that I couldn’t fulfill my purpose there. I needed to find a party that aligned with my goals. This was a difficult decision, not a rash one. When I realized that DC was no longer relevant to my plan, I informed my supporters, and they supported and encouraged me to leave,” explained Adv Tšilo.

Speaking at the same press conference, Mr Letela, who had a short tenure with the RFP, expressed his belief in politics of growth. He was pleased that his departure from RFP was voluntary, unlike his forced exit from the BNP. Mr Letela joined the RFP in September of the previous year.

“I believe in the politics of growth, where I can take on leadership roles. I chose SR because of its consistency and principles, which allow members to grow within the party. SR also believes in the rule of law, accountability, and transparency, and I stand with that. We must eradicate corruption and make a positive impact on the people,” Mr Letela concluded.

DC spokesperson, Serialong Qoo, had previously dismissed concerns about departures, stating that the party had survived many defections before.