AGP Executive Report

Press Freedom Under Pressure: Amnesty and media groups renewed calls for action after Lesotho journalist Kananelo Boloetse was allegedly abducted and tortured on 5 September, with police saying they can’t progress because he is “in hiding” and they can’t reach him. Police Accountability & Public Safety: Police Commissioner Borotho Matsoso publicly appealed for Boloetse to come forward, while also admitting investigators lack key details only he can provide. Justice in the Courts: A man accused of killing Moeketsane Khotšeng with a lebetlela stick was granted bail by the High Court with conditions, including a M3,000 deposit. Water Infrastructure Milestone: Lesotho Highlands Water Project Phase II marked progress as two new bridges—Khubelu and Mabunyaneng—were opened in Mokhotlong to keep communities connected around the future Polihali Reservoir. Health & Tech Support: WHO and the Pandemic Fund handed Lesotho medical and ICT equipment worth about M2.5m to strengthen early detection and healthcare delivery. Security Cooperation: South Africa and Lesotho destroyed 1,787 illegal firearms seized in joint operations, targeting cross-border trafficking and violent crime. Food Production Focus: Agriculture Minister Selibe Mochoboroane urged farmers to share practical knowledge to boost output, saying training must reach the fields, not just classrooms.

Police and speech limits: Tšolo “Tjeka Tjeka” Thakeli says Commissioner of Police Borotho Matsoso warned him that police may not protect citizens who name Prime Minister Sam Matekane after Thakeli’s Facebook criticism led to repeated charges and detention. Environment and revenue services: Revenue Services Lesotho and the Forestry Department planted 2,000 trees at Ha Molipa, Kolonyama, Leribe, continuing a programme started in 2023 that has reached about 20,000 trees per year. Regional security cooperation: South African and Lesotho police destroyed 1,700+ illegal firearms seized in joint operations, with officials linking the move to cutting cross-border trafficking and organised crime. Health and youth crisis: Lesotho’s health ministry says 1 in 4 learners aged 13–17 seriously considered suicide, urging a wider conversation and support for young people. Press freedom alarm: Amnesty International and media groups renewed calls for an investigation after journalist Kananelo Boloetse was allegedly abducted and assaulted in Maseru, while the U.S. Embassy has stayed publicly silent. Water infrastructure: Minister Pemmy Majodina will oversee the unveiling of two newly completed Lesotho Highlands Water Project Phase 2 bridges in Mokhotlong this week. ICT and medical support: WHO and the Pandemic Fund delivered M2.5m worth of medical and ICT equipment to strengthen early detection and healthcare delivery. Trade and jobs: A wool and mohair roadshow in Teyateyaneng and beyond is pushing youths to add value locally instead of exporting raw fibre. International travel access: South Korea says Lesotho citizens can use K-ETA to enter without a traditional visa for up to 60 days.

Press Freedom Under Strain: Amnesty International and press groups renewed calls for an urgent, independent probe after Newsday editor Kananelo Boloetse was allegedly abducted and assaulted in Maseru, while the U.S. Embassy has stayed publicly silent. Public Safety & Security: South Africa and Lesotho police destroyed 1,787 seized firearms in a joint operation aimed at stopping illegal weapons feeding cross-border crime. Health System Support: Lesotho received about M2.5m in WHO and Pandemic Fund ICT and medical equipment, including glucose monitors, stethoscopes, laptops and modems, to strengthen early detection and routine care. Youth Mental Health: The Ministry of Health says 1 in 4 learners aged 13–17 seriously considered suicide, with officials urging better support and open conversation. Education Inclusion: Special education teachers pushed for real inclusion of children with disabilities beyond classrooms, including communities and churches. Agriculture & Jobs: Farmers’ knowledge-sharing and a wool-and-mohair roadshow in Teyateyaneng and other districts focus on value addition, skills, and market linkages to boost livelihoods. Infrastructure Watch: LHWP Phase 2 progress continues with the planned unveiling of newly completed Mabunyaneng and Khubelu bridges in Mokhotlong. Government Oversight: Defence and National Security PS Mpopo Tšoele is accused of interfering in LDF procurement by suspending the procurement manager and taking over purchasing functions. Travel Privilege: South Korea says Lesotho passport holders can enter using K-ETA for up to 60 days, easing visa hurdles for eligible travellers.

Press Freedom Under Threat: Amnesty International and CPJ are demanding urgent, independent probes after Lesotho journalist Kananelo Boloetse was allegedly abducted and assaulted near Thaba-Bosiu, with authorities urged to protect him from reprisals. Security & Accountability: Lesotho’s Defence and National Security PS Mpopo Tšoele says the LDF was not involved, as questions grow over which security actors may be responsible. Governance & Procurement: Defence PS Mpopo Tšoele has suspended the ministry’s procurement manager and taken procurement functions himself, with allegations of bypassing tender processes and leaving existing suppliers in limbo. Public Services & Rights: Special education teachers are calling for real inclusion of children with disabilities beyond classrooms, including churches and community spaces. Water Infrastructure: Minister Pemmy Majodina’s quarterly oversight of LHWP Phase 2 will include unveiling newly completed Mabunyaneng and Khubelu bridges in Mokhotlong. Local Government Finance: Maseru City Council is reportedly considering moving from the Moonstar Complex to the Old Parliament Building to ease a reported M49m rental arrears burden. Trade & Jobs: Lesotho’s duty-free access to the US under AGOA has been extended to 2028, protecting key textiles, apparel and fisheries exports. Agriculture Skills: Agriculture Minister Selibe Mochoboroane says knowledge-sharing is crucial to boost grain production, warning that poor planning around aggregation centres can undermine output.

Defence Procurement Scandal: Lesotho’s Defence and National Security PS Mpopo Tšoele is accused of verbally suspending procurement manager Senate Makhaola and taking procurement functions for himself, allegedly bypassing bidding and leaving existing suppliers in limbo. Journalist Safety Under Fire: Amnesty International and other groups are calling for an impartial investigation into the reported abduction and assault of Newsday editor Kananelo Boloetse, warning that intimidation is meant to silence accountability reporting. Local Government Finance: Maseru City Council is reportedly considering moving from the Moonstar Complex to the Old Parliament Building to ease a reported M49 million rental arrears crisis, though lease complications could worsen penalties. Anti-Corruption Push: The DCEO says opposition MP Jane Lekunya has agreed to repay M6 million linked to an alleged M109 million agriculture tender fraud scheme. Water Infrastructure: LHWP II’s new Mabunyaneng and Khubelu bridges are set to open, restoring year-round access on the Mokhotlong–Maseru A1 route as Polihali dam work advances. Sports Governance: LNOC president Letsatsi Ntsibolane downplays “instability” after resignations by CEO Morake Raleaka and COO ‘Mathato Makhorole, saying the body remains in control. Trade & Market Access: Lesotho secured an AGOA extension, keeping duty-free U.S. access for key exports until 2028. Tourism & Early Learning: LTDC will host a Tourism Pitso in September, while the education ministry continues ECCD expansion with new reception-class facilities.

Defence Procurement Crisis: Lesotho’s Defence and National Security PS Mpopo Tšoele has suspended the ministry’s procurement manager, Senate Makhaola, and taken procurement functions into his own hands, with sources alleging he bypassed competitive bidding and left existing suppliers in limbo. Journalist Safety Alarm: Amnesty International and local media groups are demanding an urgent, independent probe into the reported abduction and assault of Newsday editor Kananelo Boloetse, after claims he was questioned about his work and threatened with death. Corruption and Accountability: The DCEO says opposition MP Jane Lekunya has agreed to repay M6-million linked to an alleged M109-million agriculture tender fraud scheme, as prosecutors pursue asset recovery and further action. Justice Delays at LEC: A prolonged suspension of Lesotho Electricity Company executive management has dragged on for about 18 months, with calls for government to end the “limbo” and complete disciplinary processes. Maseru City Council Debt: Maseru City Council is reportedly considering moving from the Moonstar Complex to the Old Parliament Building to ease M49-million rental arrears, though lease issues could complicate any shift. Sports and Governance Watch: LNOC president Letsatsi Ntsibolane says the Olympic body remains stable after the resignations of CEO Morake Raleaka and COO ‘Mathato Makhorole, while Lesotho Aquatics prepares its first swimming pool at Ratjomose Barracks. Trade Boost: Lesotho secures extended duty-free U.S. market access under AGOA until December 2028, protecting key textiles, apparel and fisheries exports.

Anti-Corruption Push: Lesotho’s Directorate on Corruption and Economic Offences says opposition MP Jane Lekunya has agreed to repay M6-million linked to an alleged M109-million agriculture tender fraud, with cooperation promised in the case. Press Freedom Under Threat: Outrage is growing over the reported abduction and assault of journalist Kananelo Boloetse in Maseru; Amnesty International and media groups are calling for an urgent, independent investigation and protection for journalists. Food Security Plan: The Disaster Management Authority says food grains purchases will start September 18, buying registered farmers’ produce (10% per farmer) and setting prices for maize, sorghum, wheat and beans. Tourism Investment Drive: The Lesotho Tourism Development Corporation will host a Tourism Pitso in September 16–17 to attract investment, improve market access and boost Lesotho’s tourism ahead of the independence anniversary. Regional Context: South Africa’s Ramaphosa has gazetted 4 November 2026 as a public holiday for local elections, while AGOA has been extended to December 2028, keeping duty-free access for Lesotho exports to the US.

Press Freedom Under Fire: Lesotho journalist and human rights defender Kananelo Boloetse’s reported abduction and assault in Maseru has drawn strong condemnation, with Amnesty International and Media Women Association of Lesotho calling for an urgent, independent investigation and protection from reprisals. Food Security & Rural Support: The Disaster Management Authority says food grains purchases will start September 18 at Food Management Units nationwide, buying 10% of registered farmers’ grains and setting aside weevil treatment per bag, with prices published for maize, sorghum, wheat and beans. Tourism Push: The Lesotho Tourism Development Corporation will host a two-day Tourism Pitso (Sept 16–17) to attract investment and market access, linking the sector’s plans to Lesotho’s 60th independence anniversary. Regional Diplomacy: Lesotho scholars backed China’s Global Governance Initiative, arguing it could improve Global South representation in global decision-making.

Press Freedom Under Fire: Lesotho authorities are being urged to urgently investigate the reported abduction, torture and assault of journalist Kananelo Boloetse, with Amnesty International and MWALes warning the attacks are meant to intimidate people who speak out. Tourism Push: The Lesotho Tourism Development Corporation will host a two-day Tourism Pitso (Sept 16–17) with government, private sector and regional stakeholders to attract investment and boost Lesotho’s tourism ahead of the 60th Independence anniversary. Regional Diplomacy: Lesotho scholars say China’s Global Governance Initiative could help address the Global South’s underrepresentation in international decision-making. Trade Relief for Lesotho: Lesotho’s exporters get continued duty-free access to the US after AGOA was extended to Dec 2028, covering textiles, apparel and fisheries. Migration Tensions in the Region: South Africa’s migration enforcement remains in focus after reports of violence linked to undocumented-migrant crackdowns, with officials reiterating immigration management is a government responsibility. Justice & Courts (Regional): Zimbabwe’s judiciary reshuffle elevates judges to higher courts, including a new Court of Appeal president, after secondment work in Lesotho.

Judicial Independence Watch: Zimbabwe’s Justice Charles Hungwe was appointed President of the Court of Appeal, with three High Court judges elevated to the Supreme Court in a major reshuffle that comes amid long-running concerns about judicial independence. Press Freedom Under Threat: Lesotho authorities are urged to investigate the reported abduction, torture and assault of journalist Kananelo Boloetse in Maseru, with Amnesty calling for urgent protection and a prompt, independent probe. Migration & Security: South Africa’s inter-ministerial committee reported progress on its five-point migration plan while condemning violence at Che Guevara, saying immigration enforcement remains government’s responsibility. Deportation Pressure: Home Affairs figures show tens of thousands processed for deportation and repatriation, with thousands still held awaiting removal, highlighting strain on detention capacity. Trade Policy: Lesotho’s exporters get relief as AGOA access to the US is extended duty-free until December 2028, covering textiles, apparel and fisheries. Local Governance Dispute (SA): The ANC heads to the Electoral Court after IEC exclusions tied to missed online nomination submissions, arguing technical failures rather than late nominations. Business & Accountability (Lesotho): A Lesotho study flags credit costs, geography and a large state as major constraints, but warns firms struggle most to detect fraud and workplace misconduct. Tourism Leadership Allegations (Lesotho): LTDC board sources allege pressure from people close to the Prime Minister to back a specific CEO candidate, which the board says it did not recommend. National Unity: Lesotho will hold a national prayer walk and service to mark the 60th Independence anniversary.

Migration Management: South Africa’s government says it has improved implementation of the President’s five-point migration plan, while condemning violence during recent protests and warning law enforcement remains the state’s job. Election Court Fight: The ANC has taken the IEC to court after some candidates were “locked out” of the online nomination system, arguing a technical failure prevented final submission. Illegal Mining Crackdown: Police and the SANDF arrested 30 suspects in Mohlakeng and seized generators, jackhammers and explosives, with several suspects including Lesotho nationals. Lesotho Justice & Health Oversight: Lesotho’s Public Accounts Committee orders audits at Queen ‘Mamohato Memorial Hospital after allegations of fraudulent nursing licences, and also presses for independent checks on foreign doctors’ credentials. Trade Policy: Lesotho’s Ministry of Trade says AGOA has been extended by two years to 31 December 2028, keeping duty-free access for key exports. Climate Planning: Lesotho’s Disaster Management Authority will host a National Climate Outlook Forum ahead of the 2026/27 season. Local Governance & Accountability: The justice sector is urged to move from planning to faster action to rebuild public trust.

Judiciary Shake-Up: Zimbabwe swore in Justice Charles Hungwe as Court of Appeal president and elevated three High Court judges to the Supreme Court, with Hungwe noting his Lesotho secondment under SADC. Justice Delivery Push: Lesotho’s Justice Sector Coordination Forum urged courts, police and correctional services to move from planning to faster, fairer action to rebuild public trust. Courtroom Fight at NUL: The Court of Appeal heard arguments in Prof Kananelo Mosito’s contempt bid against the National University of Lesotho over his Acting Vice-Chancellor role after a vacancy. QMMH Licence Fraud Scrutiny: Lesotho’s Public Accounts Committee ordered audits at Queen ‘Mamohato Memorial Hospital after allegations of fraudulent nursing licences and questioned foreign doctors’ credentials, including claims an “unqualified” paediatric head put children at risk. LTDC CEO Pressure Claims: Board sources allege two figures close to the Prime Minister tried to push a preferred candidate for the Lesotho Tourism Development Corporation CEO post. Maseru Rights Case: Journalist Kananelo Boloetse says armed men abducted and tortured him near Thaba-Bosiu; he opened a police case. Climate Readiness: The Disaster Management Authority will host a National Climate Outlook Forum as El Niño 2026/27 nears, warning of below-normal rainfall and intense heat. Independence Prayer: A national prayer marks Lesotho’s 60th Independence anniversary with a walk from New Parliament to Old Parliament.

Independence 60th: Lesotho will hold a national prayer on Wednesday as part of the 60th anniversary, starting with a walk from the New Parliament to the Old Parliament under the theme “National Colours,” aiming to promote peace, unity and pride. Justice reform push: The Ministry of Law and Justice says the justice system must move from talk to action, urging faster, fairer delivery across courts, police and correctional services to rebuild public trust. Justice system overhaul (EU-backed): With EU support, government launched a Justice Sector Coordination Forum to improve coordination across the justice chain and smooth case transitions. QMMH licence fraud: The Public Accounts Committee ordered audits and sanctions after allegations that a QMMH nursing assistant obtained a fraudulent practising licence, with scrutiny also extending to the Lesotho Nursing Council’s checks. QMMH paediatrics credentials: PAC also questioned an “unqualified” doctor heading the children’s ward, raising patient-safety concerns and authenticity of qualifications. NUL contempt fight: The Court of Appeal heard arguments in Prof. Kananelo Mosito’s contempt bid against the National University of Lesotho, with NUL arguing the matter is being mishandled. LTDC CEO pressure claims: Board sources allege Prime Minister-linked figures pushed for a specific LTDC CEO candidate, while the board says it did not recommend that person. Climate preparedness: The Disaster Management Authority will host a National Climate Outlook Forum, while the environment ministry warns of below-normal rainfall and intense heat ahead of El Niño 2026/27. Business & youth support: The CAFI project tour highlighted opportunities for textiles, food and brick-making, and a Future AI workshop was announced to train Basotho entrepreneurs and young people. Maseru security incident: Journalist Kananelo Boloetse says he was abducted and tortured near Thaba-Bosiu, and has opened a police case.

Climate Preparedness: Lesotho’s Disaster Management Authority will host a National Climate Outlook Forum with the Meteorological Services to share seasonal forecasts and push sector-by-sector preparedness. Green Card Lottery: The US released DV-2026 selection figures, with about 129,516 prospective applicants registered and selectees needing to complete processes by Sept 30, 2026. Human Rights & Safety: Journalist Kananelo Boloetse says armed men abducted, tortured and dumped him near Thaba-Bosiu; he has opened a police case. Public Accounts Crackdown (QMMH): The Public Accounts Committee ordered audits and licence revocations at Queen ‘Mamohato Memorial Hospital after allegations of nursing licence fraud, and raised concerns about foreign doctors’ credentials and patient safety. Justice Reform Push: Government, with EU support, launched a fresh bid to overhaul Lesotho’s justice system via a Justice Sector Coordination Forum to speed up services and rebuild public trust. Business & Jobs: Trade Minister Motlatsi Maqelepo toured CAFI-backed firms, urging youth entrepreneurship, while a separate order targets a labour dispute at Precious Garments over short-time work and delayed pay. Tourism & Trade Links: Kuwait’s chamber pledged to deepen trade and investment ties with Lesotho after talks with the foreign affairs minister.

Green Card Lottery: The US State Department has published the DV-2026 Diversity Visa list, with dozens of African countries included and Egypt, Algeria, Sudan and Kenya among the top selectees; applicants must submit by 30 September 2026 or lose eligibility. Human Rights & Safety: Maseru journalist Kananelo Boloetse says armed men abducted, handcuffed and tortured him near Thaba-Bosiu; he’s been treated and has opened a case. Tourism Governance: Board sources at the Lesotho Tourism Development Corporation allege pressure from people close to the Prime Minister to push a preferred CEO candidate, with the board saying it did not recommend that person. PAC & Health Sector Integrity: The Public Accounts Committee orders audits and credential checks at Queen ‘Mamohato Memorial Hospital after allegations of nursing licence fraud and concerns about foreign doctors’ qualifications, including possible gaps in verification. Justice System Reform: Government, with EU support, launches a Justice Sector Coordination Forum to speed up court and police delivery and rebuild public trust. Business & Jobs: A CAFI-backed tour highlights opportunities for youth and small firms, while a separate report warns Lesotho businesses are squeezed by credit costs, state size and fraud. Climate Risk: Environment officials warn of below-normal rains and intense heat in 2026/27, with heavier rains expected early 2027.

PAC Oversight on Health Licensing: The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) grilled Queen ‘Mamohato Memorial Hospital (QMMH) over alleged unlicensed practice, hearing that nursing assistant Mantsane Likotsi worked for eight years using a fraudulent practising licence and never sat the required Nursing Council exam; PAC ordered the Lesotho Nursing Council to revoke her certificate and QMMH to terminate her employment, while the LNC said it only acted after being alerted and referred the matter to police. Credentials Under Fire at QMMH: PAC also demanded the Ministry of Health verify the academic credentials of an “unqualified” paediatric head, Dr Tesfay Teklehaimanot, after concerns about his qualifications and professional registration, with questions raised over inconsistencies in documents and child safety. NUL Court Fight: At the Court of Appeal, dismissed Pro-Vice-Chancellor Prof Kananelo Mosito challenged NUL’s actions in a contempt dispute, with the university arguing he brought the matter to the wrong forum. Justice System Reform: Government, with EU support, launched a Justice Sector Coordination Forum to improve coordination across the justice chain and smooth case transitions. Trade and Diplomacy: Kuwait’s business chamber pledged to deepen trade and investment ties with Lesotho, while Lesotho’s foreign minister met UAE officials to expand bilateral cooperation. Regional Sports Spotlight: Lesotho’s Sechaba Chabeli set a podium target for the Roof of Africa in Maseru, and the Lesotho Taekwondo Association elected Brig-Gen Naha Kolisang as president unopposed.