Budding RFP serial fraudster munches M380k

‘MATHATO SEBOKA

MASERU – Lejone Puseletso, a Member of Parliament, elected for Thaba-Moea contituency appeared before the Magistrates Court on Wednesday this week accused of fraud amounting to about M380 000.

Appearing before Magistrate Itumeleng Letsika and prosecutor advocate Tsietsi Hlaele, Puseletso was charged with a violation of Section 68 (1) read with 109 of the Penal Code Act No 6 of 2010. He was granted a bail deposit of M3 000 and surety of M 20 000; he will appear again in court on August 5.

According to the charge sheet, Puseletso, apparently a budding fraudster, defrauded Lebohang Shale M75 000, ‘Mamohau Raselia Ntlatlapo M45 000, Lijeng Rapoli, M 25 000, ‘Mamoeti Sello, M45 000 Julius Mashale M50 000 all for land sales at Ha Makhoathi in Maseru.

Puseletso again defrauded Dingane Peter Mokonyane and Light of Life International Ministries, over the sale of a plot of land in Khubelu, Ha Abia – a staggering M140 000.

Magistrate Itumeleng Letsika ordered that Puseletso be taken to hospital after his lawyer complained police had abused him during his arrest at his home.

Puseletso is the second MP to be taken in by police in recent weeks.

Tšepo Lipholo – Basotho Convent Movement leader is in jail awaiting bail for allegedly disrespecting the royal family.

Puseletso’s arrest drew mixed reactions from the public with many voicing happiness that the police demonstrate lack of bias in arresting an MP of the ruling party – the Revolution for Prosperity (RFP) especially some one of Puseletso’s calibre.

Puseletso saved the RFP-led government from collapse in late 2023 when 61 MPs had indicated a solid intent to oust Matekane through a no confidence vote.

He became instrumental in launching a spirited challenge on the amended section o the constitution which barred Matekane from advising the King to call new elections if/or when he lost the motion. His prayers at court reversed the controversial legislation and gave Matekane a lifeline to continue as prime minister till day.