Mohale FM Lesotho’s Eleventh Parliament today commemorated Parliamentary Day in Botha-Bothe.
According to the Speaker of Parliament, Honourable Tlohang Sekhamane, the purpose of celebrating Parliamentary Day is to revive the morale of Members of Parliament and to educate the public about the role and work of Parliament. Hon Sekhamane noted that many members of the public only become aware of Parliament when elections are approaching.
Among those who attended the celebration were former Prime Minister, Mr Pakalitha Mosisili, Messrs Lesao Lehohla, Kelebone Maope, MothetjoaMetsing, and former Speaker of parliament, Mr Sephiri Motanyane, as well as Members of Parliament, Senators, and Honourable Ministers.
In his address, Honourable Sekhamane explained that the role of Parliament is to represent the people, make laws, and allocate funds to the government. He further highlighted that Lesotho’s Parliament originated at Kopunyane, making it fitting that Parliamentary Day be celebrated there to allow the public to better understand what Parliament is.
He announced that Parliamentary Day will now be commemorated annually.
Honourable Sekhamane also called on Members of Parliament who have not been actively participating in parliamentary work to renew their commitment, return to proper conduct, and serve the nation diligently.
The celebrations were officially launched with a visit to the Kopunyane Cave. According to Lesotho history experts, the cave served as a parliament during the reign of King Moshoeshoe I, the founder of the Basotho nation.
Historian Pitso Mathethebale said King Moshoeshoe I, together with his advisors and other chiefs, used the Kopunyane Cave to plan national matters, including the country’s security and key decisions affecting the nation.
