Cabinet in crisis: 14 Ministers flunk midterm Report Card
Accountability vacuum as report card exposes cabinet deficits
TEBOHO KHATEBE MOLEFI and
MOTSAMAI MOKOTJO
As winter arrives and mid-year academic reports circulate, Prime Minister Ntsokoane Matekane and his cabinet face their own damning assessment. The Winter Cabinet Report Card, grading ministers from A (excellent) to U (ungraded), reveals widespread underperformance and policy failures across key government portfolios.
With 12 ministers graded E or F and two ungraded due to incompetence, this report card demands immediate action. The prime minister’s reluctance to wield the axe risks deepening Lesotho’s governance crisis.
Prime Minister Ntsokoane Matekane: Grade D
Matekane appeared blindsided by unemployment crises, notably during chaotic Lesotho Defence Force recruitment queues. His flagship Sebabatso programme fails to address joblessness, while his blame-shifting to Trump-era US aid cuts ignores his government’s failure to diversify markets.
A planned June 18 youth dialogue – budgeted at M400 million – lacks concrete solutions. His focus remains on cosmetic urban projects like the facelift to Makoanyane Square, mirroring Kigali’s aesthetics while ignoring economic fundamentals.
As a business leader turned politician, his Revolution for Prosperity faces criticism for blurring lines between state and personal interests – evidenced by ministries booking workshops at his recently reopened hotel.
Deputy Prime Minister Justice Nthomeng Majara: Grade E
Majara, as Leader of the House, prioritizes silencing critics – bullying the Public Accounts Committee and chastising journalists. Her admission that the government was “ill-prepared” upon taking office underscores a lack of tangible achievements beyond accompanying Matekane on international trips and holding fort when the prime minister is away.
This one is really on holiday, sometime you forget that she is here. We expected a lot from you ‘M’e Deputy Prime Minister.
Selibe Mochoboroane – Health: Grade D
He has ignored imminent strikes by village health workers over unpaid wages (M2 448 per month) with the latest call on him to act by the Lesotho Workers Association being on April 29.
There is the shuttered Blue Cross rehabilitation centre too – closed since 2019.
The minister remains silent on these, among many issues he has to deal with in the health sector. You can do better Mr Minister.
Dr Retšelisitsoe Matlanyane – Finance: Grade E
Dr Matlanyane has faced significant challenges in steering our economy, which continues to struggle with slow growth, high unemployment, and fiscal constraints.
While her academic and professional background is commendable, her tenure has been marked by mixed results in key areas, including energy sector reforms and fiscal management.
Under her watch the economy remains stagnant, with limited diversification beyond textiles and agriculture.
Despite promises of structural reforms, public debt remains a concern and revenue collection has not improved significantly. Her budgets have emphasized social spending, but without robust private sector growth, sustainable economic recovery remains elusive.
Her continued bailouts of the LEC highlight poor governance in the energy sector. Instead of implementing long-term solutions, such as privatizing inefficient segments or improving revenue collection, her ministry has resorted to repeated financial rescues, straining public funds.
Since she held the public purse it seems she has never actually bothered to find out the reasons all the money funneled towards this company falls through the crack, knowing what we know now.
Her signature of the controversial $230 million solar deal without cabinet approval, later revised to $58 million, has raised eyebrow and described as a Frazer Solar type of deal of the Temeki Tšolo era in many quarters, but the finance minister appears unswerving to see it through…we wonder why.
While Dr Matlanyane has shown commitment to fiscal discipline, her policies lack bold reforms needed to revive Lesotho’s economy. Faster execution of projects like Ha Ramarothole and reducing reliance on LEC bailouts should be prioritized to ensure sustainable growth.
Sadly, she evades scrutiny like the plague.
We think she can do better too, if she can manage to calm herself down, listen and answer questions like the professional she is.
She was a good pick for cabinet but her track record is beginning to betray her.
Professor Ntoi Rapapa – Education: Grade E
Seems out of options on how to replace the US-funded school meals for our 36 000 children that US President Trump halted. What are other alternatives Prof? It’s time you rise to the occasion. You need to speak with your Cabinet colleague, Dr Matlanyane, on how to fund the programme.
Children shouldn’t bear the brunt of lack of investment from government. Strategize on ideas to fund secondary and high school students. There’s no logic in funding free primary education yet there’s none for high school.
Amazingly government funds tertiary studies.
It makes no sense Ntate that pupils at Linakaneng continue to be taught under a dilapidated structure, it is unfortunate that children from less privileged homes are subjected to inhumane treatment and downright human right violations and indignity. Build more schools and hire more teachers for these children.
You can do better, pull up your socks!
Nthati Moorosi – Communications: Grade D
Minister Moorosi deserves commendation for spearheading our National Digital Strategy at a time when artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping global economies. Her initiative demonstrates foresight in positioning Lesotho to harness digital opportunities, fostering connectivity and innovation in an increasingly tech-driven world.
However, concerns remain regarding her ministry’s failure to uphold transparency, particularly the unexplained information blackout on weekly cabinet reports – a critical expectation for a communications minister. Additionally, her recent push to revive the draconian Computer Crime and Cybersecurity Bill of 2022, which threatens press freedom by criminalizing aspects of journalism, is deeply troubling.
While the digital strategy is laudable, Minister Moorosi has fallen short in leveraging science and technology to address unemployment, agriculture, and healthcare through AI-driven solutions. Furthermore, her silence on improving media welfare and professionalism in Lesotho’s polarized media landscape is similarly disappointing.
Much more was expected from her leadership.
We urge a balanced approach – one that champions innovation without stifling freedom or neglecting key sectors in need of technological advancement. Ntate Matekane, give her a nudge. She can perform better if she wants to.
Mputi Stephen Mputi – Public Service: Grade U (Ungraded)
Zero progress on civil service reform despite legal mandate. A silent ministry, a weak leader! This minister has been so quiet and invisible that assessing his performance is nearly impossible. Leading one of the most critical ministries in the cabinet, he appears completely out of his depth.
When was the last time the Ministry of Public Service made any meaningful effort?
The only notable action he could have taken was invoking Section 45(1) and (2) of the Public Service Regulations, under Section 22(2), to initiate job evaluations and grading – ensuring fair remuneration for civil servants. This move alone could have improved both service delivery and employee morale. Instead, he remains hidden, failing to deliver.
Prime Minister Matekane, it’s time to rethink this appointment.
Mokhethi Shelile – Trade: Grade: E
Minister Shelile has demonstrated a lack of decisive action in addressing critical trade challenges. His failure to devise tangible solutions to US tariffs under Trump’s administration highlights poor strategic planning.
Instead of aggressively pursuing alternative markets such as the EU through the AfCFTA – Shelile offers shallow assurances without concrete results.
Additionally, his dismissal of the AfDB’s EIA requirement for the M200 million Lesotho Standards Institute building is troubling. Arguing that an EIA is “not standard” undermines accountability and risks donor confidence.
Most concerning is the absence of a clear industrial policy. Lesotho’s trade sector lacks innovation, diversification, and competitiveness, yet Shelile has no real plans to revitalize it. His leadership reflects complacency, not the urgency needed to boost Lesotho’s economy. Without bold reforms, Lesotho’s trade prospects will continue to stagnate.
Lebona Lephema – Local Government: Grade: F
The recent unilateral changes to the LMPS retirement age and the establishment of the Inspector General’s office without consulting police officers and LEPOSA are unacceptable.
Minister Lephema’s authoritarian approach undermines workers’ rights and disregards democratic processes. Police officers deserve transparency and inclusion in decisions affecting their careers.
Equally concerning is the minister’s failure to deliver on the government’s commitment to hike chiefs’ salaries in April, as agreed with the DDPR and the LEWA.
This neglect fuels distrust and frustration among public servants.
Lephema must urgently address the hazardous Ha Tšosane dumping site, which poses severe health and environmental risks. His inaction reflects poor leadership. The minister must rectify these failures through immediate consultation, accountability, and action. Basotho deserve better.
Lejone Mpotjoane – Foreign Affairs: Grade: E
Since assuming office, foreign affairs minister, Mpotjoane, has demonstrated a commitment to strengthening regional and international ties but faces criticism over limited tangible outcomes. His efforts to enhance diplomatic relations within the SADC and with key partners like South Africa are commendable. However, his approach lacks strategic depth, particularly in addressing Basotho migrant workers’ rights in South Africa and securing economic benefits from bilateral agreements.
Mpotjoane’s engagement in multilateral forums, such as the UN and the AU, has raised Lesotho’s visibility but has not yet translated into significant foreign investment or development support. Additionally, his ministry has been slow to address consular challenges faced by Basotho abroad.
While his diplomatic rhetoric is polished, but concrete achievements remain sparse. To improve, Mpotjoane should prioritize actionable policies, stronger economic diplomacy, and faster responsiveness to diaspora concerns. His performance so far is moderate, with potential for growth if backed by more decisive action.
Pull up your socks Ntate!
Thabo Mofosi – Agric, Food Security: Grade: F
Since appointment, he has failed to bring any meaningful innovation or progress to the agricultural sector. Farmers continue to struggle with poor access to resources, outdated farming methods and declining productivity, yet his leadership has been marked by inaction and inefficiency.
Worse still, his tenure has been plagued by corruption scandals involving the mismanagement of fertilizers and farm inputs meant to support struggling farmers – with supplies disappearing before reaching intended beneficiaries.
These scandals have further crippled an already vulnerable sector, leaving farmers without the necessary support to improve yields or sustain livelihoods.
Given his failure to deliver tangible results and the persistent corruption under his watch, he has proven unfit to lead such a critical ministry. The sector deserves a leader who prioritizes farmers’ needs, ensures transparency and implements modern solutions.
For the sake of the nation’s food security and rural economy, Mofosi must be removed immediately.
Mohlomi Moleko – Natural Resources, Acting Minister of Energy: Grade F
Minister Moleko’s tenure as natural resources minister has been marked by mixed results in protecting the country’s resources, particularly in diamond mining and the Lesotho Highlands Water Project.
While he has advocated for stricter oversight of mining operations, concerns remain over whether Basotho are truly benefiting from these ventures. The Mines and Minerals Act of 2005, particularly Section 11(1)(c)(ii), mandates preference for local goods and services, yet enforcement has been weak. Many mining contracts still favour foreign companies, limiting economic spillover to Basotho businesses. Moleko must push for stricter compliance to ensure local participation.
As acting energy minister, he faces a crisis at the LEC, plagued by financial instability and inefficiencies. His ability to rescue LEC will depend on securing funding, reducing operational losses, and improving revenue collection. So far, his interventions have been slow, raising doubts about his capacity to turn the utility around.
To succeed, Moleko must take stronger policy actions – ensuring mining revenues benefit Lesotho and implementing urgent reforms in the energy sector. His legacy hinges on decisive leadership in these critical areas. But as things stand, he seems far…very far from achieving any of these.
Pitso Lesaoana – Social Development, Youth, Gender:
Grade: F
Since taking office, Minister Lesaoana’s leadership in gender, youth, and social development has been mixed. On gender equality, there has been some progress in policy discussions, but tangible outcomes – such as reducing gender-based violence or economic disparities – remain lacking.
Regarding youth development, the formation of the National Youth Council has been slow, delaying meaningful youth representation in decision-making. More urgency is needed to empower young people through skills development and employment opportunities.
On disability rights, the Disability Advisory Council has yet to fully deliver on Section 6(i) of the Disability Equity Act of 2021, which mandates advocacy for disability rights. While some awareness campaigns have been launched, systemic barriers such as inaccessible infrastructure and limited economic inclusion, persist.
Overall, Minister Lesaoana’s tenure shows moderate effort but insufficient impact. Stronger implementation, accountability, and stakeholder engagement are needed to achieve real progress in these critical areas.
Neo Matjato Moteane – Public Works, Transport: Grade E (Under fire)
Minister Moteane has demonstrated commendable progress in road construction and renovations across the country, improving infrastructure and connectivity.
His efforts in upgrading key highways and rural roads have positively impacted transportation and economic activity, earning public appreciation.
However, his achievements are overshadowed by serious corruption allegations linked to the multi-million tender for Moshoeshoe I International Airport’s renovation. The PAC recommended his dismissal due to irregularities in the tender process, yet Prime Minister Matekane has retained him.
Moteane’s statement that he is “ready to go if Matekane fires him” suggests political protection rather than accountability.
The prime minister’s inaction raises concern about favouritism, as Moteane appears to be a close ally. This undermines governance and public trust, especially when corruption allegations remain unresolved. While his infrastructure contributions are notable, ethical leadership demands transparency.
Moteane’s legacy risks being tarnished unless he is cleared of wrongdoing or held accountable. The government must prioritize integrity over political loyalty to restore confidence in its institutions.
Richard Ramoeletsi – Law and Justice: Grade: D
Ramoeletsi’s failure to address urgency is glaring. Where is Justice Mathaba’s Commission report on inmate torture at Maseru Central Correctional Institution?
Delays suggest his complicity in obstructing accountability, including the stalled Government Assets Search and Recovery Task Team legislation.
The minister’s ongoing feud with the IEC over their M77 million headquarters purchase further erodes trust in him – who truly owns the building? Instead of deflection, focus on transparency and action. Leadership demands decisiveness, not evasion.
Prioritize justice for abused inmates, recover stolen state assets, and clarify the IEC property scandal. Basotho deserve answers, not excuses. Step up or step aside.
Motlatsi Maqelepo – Tourism, Sports: Grade G
Maqelepo’s tenure as minister of sports and tourism has been marred by political inconsistency and poor performance. His unruly behaviour within the BAP, coupled with his alignment with the RFP government – against the party that originally mandated him and eventually led to his expulsion – raises serious concerns about his integrity and loyalty. Such political opportunism undermines public trust and distracts from his ministerial duties.
Maqelepo’s failure to deliver on key projects, like the Setsoto Stadium renovation, highlights his inefficiency. The stadium remains in disrepair, symbolizing broader neglect in sports development. His strained relations with the LeFA further expose poor leadership, hindering progress in local football.
Overall, Maqelepo’s divisive politics and lack of tangible achievements make him an ineffective minister, failing both the tourism and sports sectors in the country. Accountability and decisive action are urgently needed Ntate Matekane.
He should go home.
Letsema Adontši – Environment: Grade F
Minister Adontši’s tenure as environment minister has been marked by disappointing inaction, particularly in addressing urgent environmental crises like the Ha Tšosane dumping site. Despite years of complaints from residents, the minister has failed to take decisive action.
This is sad considering that international partners like the EU and ReNoka shoulder much of the environmental responsibilities that should fall under his ministry, which lessens his workload.
The continued neglect of the Ha Tšosane eyesore and health risk raises serious questions about the minister’s commitment to environmental protection. Why hasn’t he invoked Section 98 of the Environment Act of 2008 to establish a tribunal and resolve the Ha Tšosane crisis? Instead of proactively addressing such issues, Minister Adontši has remained passive, failing to amplify environmental priorities in a country facing severe ecological threats.
Lesotho deserves a minister who champions environmental protection with urgency, not one who does the bare minimum while others carry the burden. It’s time for real leadership – or a change.
Tšeliso Mokhosi – Labour: Grade: F
Empty suit.
Failing workers and betraying the sector. Minister Mokhosi has become a symbol of incompetence and neglect while workers suffer mass job losses, especially in the collapsing textile sector, and illegal work permits flood the market. Mokhosi seems more interested in enjoying ministerial perks than doing his job. If this is leadership, then workers are better off without it.
Despite a surge in unemployment, the Department of Labour keeps rubber-stamping work permits for foreigners, even in fields where Basotho have the skills and qualifications.
This isn’t just negligence, it’s a betrayal.
A minister who inspires zero confidence.
A tenure of inaction, indifference, incompetence.
Prime Minister Matekane promised a government of action. If that promise means anything, he must axe Mokhosi immediately. Keeping a failing minister only proves that the suffering of workers doesn’t matter to those in power.
Mokhosi has failed.
The evidence is undeniable.
If the prime minister refuses to act, then he, too, becomes complicit in this disaster. Enough is enough. Fire Mokhosi. Save the labour sector before it’s too late.
Limpho Tau – Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office:
Grade E
Minister Tau, a key figure in the Prime Minister’s Office, has found himself at the centre of several controversies that demand scrutiny. Their opposition as government to legislation targeting Politically Exposed Persons raises serious ethical concerns, particularly as reports from the PAC reveal that his company owes over M1 million in unpaid electricity to the financially struggling LEC. This glaring debt begs the question: Is Minister Tau part of a broader pattern of officials exploiting state utilities as personal cash cows?
Under his oversight, the National Aids Commission remains alarmingly inactive, save for ceremonial appearances during World AIDS Day. With US funding cuts under the Trump administration, what tangible local solutions is the NAC pursuing to sustain HIV/Aids programmes? The silence is deafening.
Additionally, the Government Assets and Recovery Task Team, which falls under his office, claims to lack resources – raising doubts about the government’s commitment to recovering stolen assets. Where are the promised progress reports?
Finally, the Lesotho Defence Force (Amendment) Bill of 2025, which sparked public outrage, was abruptly withdrawn. Basotho deserve assurance that this controversial Bill will not resurface. Minister Tau must answer: Who was this law really meant to serve?
His tenure so far raises more questions than answers, and Basotho deserve accountability.
