Amid rising frustration, SR leader distances himself from opposition bloc
As economic woes deepen, Basotho demand accountability – but one key opposition figure refuses to join the united front
As economic conditions worsen – marked by soaring youth unemployment, crumbling infrastructure, and glaring public sector inefficiencies – Basotho are growing increasingly impatient with the government’s perceived failure to deliver meaningful change.
The country’s systemic challenges, from inadequate healthcare and education to widespread poverty and deep-rooted corruption, have fuelled widespread discontent.
Many citizens argue that election promises remain unfulfilled, and hope for genuine transformation is fading. In response, opposition parties recently united in a rare show of solidarity, collectively condemning the government’s shortcomings. Their coordinated statements accused the ruling administration of undermining the rule of law, misusing public funds, and fostering a climate of political favouritism.
The coalition has demanded urgent reforms and greater accountability.
Yet conspicuously absent from this chorus was Socialist Revolutionaries leader, Teboho Mojapela (TM). His refusal to join the opposition’s collective denouncement has sparked public speculation: Where does he stand in Lesotho’s political struggle?
To clarify his position, Public Eye reporters, ’Matšang Khutlisi and Bokang Moshoeshoe (PE), sat down with Mojapela for an exclusive interview. Known for his outspoken – and often controversial – views, Mojapela did not hold back. He critiqued the political system, warned of leadership without integrity, and challenged the narrative that opposition parties alone can rescue Lesotho.
What followed was a revealing discussion with a leader who rejects partisan loyalty. Mojapela insists his allegiance lies not with power blocs, but with the people of Lesotho.
PE: How does your party assess the performance of the current Lesotho government?
TM: When assessing their performance, people do not actually evaluate their work. Instead, they judge them based on their background, their campaign commitments, and the scandals surrounding them. This is the worst performance we have seen since gaining independence.
PE: What do you consider the biggest failures of the current administration?
TM: They are committed to spreading lies, they are untrustworthy and corrupt, and they lack the will to serve the nation. If we truly want to fix the country, we must first assess individuals whether they have the capacity to lead, the will power, and the vision to take the nation forward.
PE: Does your party believe the government is effectively addressing poverty and inequality in Lesotho?
TM: Lesotho is poor because of both the current and previous governments. We are in this state because they prioritized tenders over national interests. The nation’s wealth should benefit everyone, but instead, leaders enrich themselves. How can someone sit in Parliament and still award tenders to themselves and their spouses, then claim to serve the people? Promises to employ 70 000 people are just tactics to silence citizens. Right now, the real issue is not infrastructure, but the lack of rule of law.
PE: Are there specific policies of the current government you oppose most strongly, and if so why?
TM: Corruption is at the root of everything. There is a book titled “Why Africa is Poor” and it is all due to corrupt leadership. Corruption undermines policies, destroys the economy, deters investors, and drives up crime. Lesotho remains impoverished because of deep-rooted corruption. Our leaders lack both the drive and the desire to move the country forward.
PE: How does your party differentiate itself from other opposition groups in critiquing the government?
TM: The so-called opposition is no better. In fact, the current administration is a product of the same opposition. They are essentially the same group of people.
PE: Do you think the current government is democratic and transparent, or do you see signs of authoritarianism?
TM: Their focus seems to be on the military. Remember the no-confidence motion? Law enforcement agencies united to oppose it, and the LDF Commander even suggested that the national flag be handed to the King instead of the opposition.
This shows that the current government is oppressive. There is clearly a problematic relationship between the prime minister and the LDF Commander. We must also ensure that those due for retirement vacate their positions to create opportunities for the youth.
PE: What alternative economic policies would your party propose to replace the current government’s approach?
TM: To fix the country, we must first identify the root causes of our problems. Corruption is at the heart of everything. If we want to rebuild Lesotho’s political landscape, we need to eliminate corruption and elect leaders with integrity and a genuine passion for the country. Ultimately, politics should be about fair wealth distribution and adherence to the rule of law. We must prioritize our national needs.
PE: How does your party view the government’s handling of corruption allegations?
TM: The prime minister has openly said he is willing to work with corrupt individuals. That alone makes it impossible to separate the current administration from corruption. The tendering system is rooted in political favouritism. Only a few, connected people benefit. It is all about political alliances.
Education is key to liberation, yet our leaders are not exploring the potential of our natural resources. Lesotho remains poor not because it lacks resources, but because of failed leadership. We need a courageous, trustworthy, and principled leader who can guide and inspire the people.
PE: Does your party support any current government initiatives, or do you reject them entirely?
TM: No, because the government is selective in whom it listens to and supports.
PE: What role do foreign powers and international organizations play in influencing Lesotho’s government, and how does your party view this?
TM: They are more focused on weakening the country while benefiting from both local and foreign corruption. Foreign nations exploit our people underpaying them, using their skills, and then sending profits back to their home countries. Lesotho’s international relations often benefit outsiders more than Basotho.
PE: Why has your party not been part of the recent opposition protests slashing the government for its failures?
TM: The opposition is full of hypocrites and corrupt individuals. There is no real difference between the opposition and the ruling party. My party does not associate with such groups.
PE: Do you agree with the opposition’s tactics in publicly condemning the government, or do you prefer a different approach?
TM: Criticism is justified, especially considering the state of the nation. Peaceful protests are another alternative, but the government suppresses dissent because they are oppressive. Unfortunately, Basotho have elected corrupt individuals who mistreat them.
PE: Were you invited to join the recent opposition demonstrations, and if so, why did you decline?
TM: I was not invited because I wrote a letter in Parliament “though it has not been read yet” distancing myself from corrupt individuals. I refuse to be governed by people who became wealthy through dishonest means. I want no association with untrustworthy people. The ruling party and the opposition are two sides of the same coin.
PE: Does your party have strategic differences with other opposition groups on how to challenge the government?
TM: Our party is grounded in strong principles. A leader must be set apart by their good deeds. I have invested heavily in people because I want to bring positive change to their lives. To liberate this nation, we must teach citizens good political principles and lead by example.
PE: Are there concerns about unity within the opposition, and how does your party navigate these divisions?
TM: I refuse to associate my party with corrupt ruling or opposition parties.
PE: Do you believe that the current opposition strategies are effective, or do you advocate for more radical measures?
TM: When we attempt to hold marches or protests, law enforcement denies us permits. What is left now is to educate Basotho so they make better choices in future elections. Let the current administration continue with their dishonest ways we will respond with education and reform.
PE: Has your party faced any repression or obstacles from the government that have limited your ability to protest?
TM: Yes, because young people who request permits are denied. Outspoken individuals are targeted and bribed. We face serious issues, including dishonesty and manipulation. The government psychologically misleads people. If we do not stand firm against corruption, we are headed for disaster.
PE: Are there ideological differences between your party and other opposition groups that prevent collaboration?
TM: We are different. I have conducted a small political study called “Where Did We Go Wrong as a Country?” and I have come to the conclusion that many Basotho do not truly understand politics they believe in empty promises rather than substance.
PE: What is your party’s long-term strategy for holding the government accountable if not through mass protests?
TM: Education is essential to liberation. If we can teach Basotho to take responsibility and become more politically engaged, Lesotho can change for the better. We must teach our people not to recycle failed politicians. That is why I left the opposition it is corrupt, and the current administration is result of it.
PE: Do you plan to form alliances with other opposition groups in the future, or will your party remain independent in its activism?
TM: No,let us give the current government time to finish its term. In the meantime, we must educate the public on politics that will truly liberate them from exploitation.
