Hero’s farewell for ‘Maseribane
TEBOHO KHATEBE MOLEFI
MASERU – The Basotho National Party (BNP) youth brigade burst into passionate chants and songs on Saturday afternoon at the party’s elective conference in Mazenod bidding farewell to outgoing leader Chief Thesele ‘Maseribane.
‘Maseribane made the unexpected appearance at the conference to address the converged delegates for the last time as party upon the invitation of his former deputy Machesetsa Mofomobe, who has since been elected party leader. The former leader was extended the invitation to give the opening address by Mofomobe.
‘Maseribane had been stripped of his prerogative to give the official opening to the party’s conference as leader by a court order borne from a High Court application by some party members who had challenged his continued stay at the helm of the party beyond March 27.
The Applicants in the matter had approached the court to, among others, declare that beyond March 27 ‘Maseribane be interdicted from holding himself as the leader of the BNP.
They also wanted for the court nullify the June 12 BNP elective conference, arguing the conference was supposed to have been held in March when his term of office expired.
Addressing the delegates, a visibly emotional ‘Maseribane acknowledged the opportunity granted for him to bid farewell to his stalwarts, indicating that though he was leaving office in an unpleasant fashion he would remain a loyal supporter, and avail himself for advice should the new leadership seek it. He went through memory lane narrating his achievements as the BNP leader and his selfless efforts during that period, assuring those present that he will never walk out of the party.
’Maseribane appealed to members of the party to respect their membership to the BNP, its constitution and traditions as “these will ensure you an intact BNP.”
In song the outgoing leader joined the thrilled floor to greet and dance with the delegates one last time as the leader after he delivered his remarks.