THE demand by Lesotho’s Members of Parliament (MP)s, of a salary increase from M40 000 to M75 000 has ignited the ire of the electorate.
The Sunday Express conducted “vox pop” interviews this week to solicit public reaction and ascertain opinions formed on the demand their opinions on the demand.
The responses varied, but many shared a common theme of frustration and disappointment.
Some called for more transparency and accountability from the government, while others expressed concern about the financial impact of MPs’ proposed salary increase.
Below are excerpts from the interviews conducted by cub reporters, Letsatsi Selikoe and Hopolang Mokhopi:
Chieftainess ‘Mateboho Majoale
Lithabaneng, Ha-Keiso: “I’m so disappointed by the demands made by MPs. They make rules that only benefit them, not the rest of us. From a chief’s perspective, I think the money they’re requesting should be used to improve the monarchy, and chiefs should be considered so that we can serve our communities better. It really hurts to see ridiculous rules being made that only benefit lawmakers.
For example, the policy that former members of parliament should be buried by the government doesn’t make sense. This is a waste of money, and I don’t think it’s right. I think there needs to be a change in the way things are done in this country. It’s heartbreaking to think about the impact these policies are having on the younger generations. They’re being robbed of opportunities and a chance at a better future. It’s clear that the current system is not sustainable, and it’s not fair to the next generation. We need to find a way to create a better future for everyone, not just those in power.
Mr Soothoane Soothoane; “It’s so frustrating to feel like I have any influence when it comes to the salary increase requests. Even if I had a say, I doubt it would make any difference. The system seems stacked against individuals like me, and it’s difficult to feel like my voice matters. I understand that the powers that be will do what they want regardless of how I feel.”
Mr Pule (Spinanzo) Leopa
Roma, Mangopeng: “The minister’s request for salary increase rings hollow when we’re struggling to make ends meet. Why should they continue to receive piles of money while we struggle? They already have enough, and their request feels tone-deaf. What really pains me is that they’re making these requests while doing nothing to support the youth of Lesotho.”
Ms ‘Makoena Matjama: “The proposed 75,000 salary increase is something I simply can’t understand. It doesn’t seem right, and it’s hard for me to even find the words to express my thoughts on it. It just doesn’t feel like the right thing to do.”
Ms ‘Masempe Makoae: “If money keeps being spent in a way that has the potential to result in financial implications, it will have a negative impact on the youth. There are many graduates who are sitting at home without jobs. Job should be a priority for the government. Investing in the current youth and those who will graduate in the future is important because it will lead to the creation of businesses that will benefit everyone; even those who never had the chance to study. This will ultimately lead to the country’s development.”
Mr Mahooana Motsie: “The government officials’ demands for a salary increase don’t really affect me. I’m a young person who gets up early to go to the market and make a living by crafting wooden furniture. I don’t have the time or energy to waste on things that won’t improve my life. I just focus on what I can control and try to make the best of what I have.”
Mr Tumelo Thoabane: “I can’t say I agree with their request – it seems selfish to me. These MPs already earn a good salary, but they’re asking for even more money while ignoring the needs of people like me. People who voted for them. It’s not right, and it shouldn’t be allowed to happen.”
Mr Samuel Lethola: “As a young person selling goods on the street, I consider myself lucky to at least have something to do. There are many other young people with nothing – no job, no money to start a business, and no way to support themselves. Our MPs should be focused on creating opportunities for these people, rather than increasing their own salaries. We need action, not words.”
Group of employees (names withheld): “The lack of job opportunities in our country is a huge problem, and the money that would be spent on salary increases could be better spent on projects that would create jobs. We could use that money to start poultry and pig farming businesses, which would provide employment for many people. It’s disappointing that only lawmakers feel they are entitled to demand salary increases, while other employees are left behind. These MPs need to remember that we voted for them, and we expect them to help us. They need to investigate whether private companies are treating their employees fairly and following the laws of our country. Until they have done that, we can’t accept their demands for more money”.
Ms ‘Mabatho Mohale: “People are losing their jobs and factories are closing down, yet lawmakers are asking for money to go into their pockets. Instead of this, they should be using those funds to address the existing crisis of unemployment. They need to come up with policies and programs that will create jobs and help people find work, rather than focusing on their own personal gain.”
Lebohang Rakobo “Parliamentarians are so selfish as they think of themselves only. They don’t consider us at all. To be honest I’m a bit disappointed about the proposed M75 000 salary increase because of the high unemployment rate has become a crisis in Lesotho. But our MPs seem to be ignorant.”