Mohale FM THE outgoing Director of Elections at the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC), MpaipheleMaqutu, has been charged with corruption in connection with the procurement of paper bags valued at M76,222.96.
Maqutu appeared before the Maseru Magistrates’ Court alongside his executive secretary JoalaneMavuso and, Mabatho Sesoane, the former IEC finance manager. They appeared before Magistrate Nkhethoa Molapo.
According to the charge sheet, the accused allegedly processed and purchased 3,000 paper bags without following established procurement procedures.
After considering submissions from both sides, and noting the prosecution’s lack of objection, Magistrate Molapo granted bail to all three accused.
Each was ordered to pay M2000 bail, refrain from interfering with crown witnesses, attend all remand hearings, and stand trial to its conclusion.
The court further directed that each accused securean independent surety residing within Maseru district on own recognisance terms.
The matter was postponed to 3 March 2025 for routine remand.
