Praises for LDF in the midst of storm

’MANTŠANG KHUTLISI

MASERU – The Lesotho Defence Force (LDF) has received accolades for their excelling work in the midst of a storm bashing amendments to delay the military leaders’ retirement ages. The rare praises were sung by the ruling Revolution for Prosperity (RFP) youth league who said the LDF plays a critical role in maintaining the security, peace as well as stability of Lesotho.

Since 1978, the LDF has had a significant impact on both the country’s national security and regional peacekeeping efforts, the youth said.

The impact of the LDF in those early days was not so positive, remembering the 1986 coup that toppled Basotho National Party leader, Prime Minister Leabua Jonathan, among many other escapades.

The RFP Youth League, however, extended a sweeping “heartfelt appreciation to the Lesotho Defence Force for their unwavering dedication, discipline and service to the Kingdom” adding that the army plays a crucial role in maintaining peace, security and stability, ensuring that citizens can go about their daily lives in a safe environment.

The LDF has, however in recent history been on the news for its horrific torture of civilians who are tortured to give out illegal guns – in most cases innocent civilians bore the inhuman torture with no guns to produce.

“As young people committed to the progress and prosperity of Lesotho, we recognize the sacrifice made by our men and women in uniform. The LDF’s efforts in safeguarding our borders, responding to emergencies as well as assisting communities during natural disasters demonstrate your commitment to the national service,” the youth said.

Furthermore, the Youth League acknowledged the role of the LDF in supporting law enforcement agencies in the fight against crime, protecting the sovereignty of the nation and also contributing to regional peacekeeping missions.

“Your professionalism and dedication inspire the youth of Lesotho to strive for excellence and serve our country with pride,” the acknowledged.

The Youth League said it recognized the LDF’s commitment to youth development through skills training, leadership programmes and career opportunities within the force. By providing guidance and mentorship, the LDF plays a key role in shaping the next generation of disciplined, responsible and patriotic leaders, they say.

This partnership between the military and young people is essential in ensuring a bright future for Lesotho, they further echoed.

The RFP Youth League also commends the LDF for their participation in regional security efforts, particularly their involvement in Mozambique.

The LDF’s contribution to peacemaking and stabilization efforts in the region is a testament to their professionalism as well as dedication to international peace and security.

The RFP Youth League further indicated they stand in full support of LDF, recognizing their restless dedication, sacrifice and service both within and beyond the borders adding that their commitment to national security, regional stability and community engagement embodies the highest values of patriotism and duty.

The Youth League further urged all Basotho, especially the youth to honor and support the LDF in their noble mission, as they “continue to serve with integrity, courage and resilience for the progress of our nation.”

The Youth League additionally applauded the LDF for playing a crucial role in the joint security operation involving other law enforcement agencies (Operation Fiela) which the security agencies said was successful in curbing crime especially among famo gang related killings that were disturbing the nation.

On the contrary, Operation Fiela is the most notorious security operation/torture on which the recent ombudsman report exposed the army’s brutal tactics.

“The collaboration effort significantly enhanced public safety and demonstrated the effectiveness of inter-agency cooperation in tackling national security challenges,” the youth said.

While it is good and highly commendable for shower soldiers with praise for doing what they are employed to do, it remains cloudy why the RFP youth league fails to speak on widespread army brutality on innocent civilians.