Theko Tlebere
Dr. Tšepo Lipholo’s recent appeal to the United Nations (UN) regarding Lesotho’s long-standing territorial grievances has sparked both hope and controversy. His choice to engage international institutions rather than resort to aggressive confrontation is commendable; however, the political fallout including the suspension of Mr. Japan Mntambo indicates the Lesotho government’s reluctance to address this issue openly. Additionally, emerging rumours, including Mr. Japan Mntambo’s suspension,rs suggesting that Israel may be financially supporting Dr. Lipholo’s endeavour raise serious concerns. If these allegations prove true, they could introduce a dangerous geopolitical dimension to an otherwise legitimate struggle. Although Dr. Lipholo’s core mission focuses on historical justice for the Basotho people, any association with Israel in the current international climate could significantly undermine the credibility of his cause and expose Lesotho to unintended diplomatic consequences.
Dr. Lipholo’s mission is based on the historical annexation of Basotho land by colonial forces, leading to generations of displacement and marginalisation. His grievances are legitimate, as thousands of Basotho still face exclusion in territories once part of their ancestral homeland. His appeal to the UN aims to highlight an unresolved colonial injustice. Instead of responding constructively, however, the Lesotho government has opted for punitive measures, including the suspension of a senior official for merely processing a visa. This approach stifles democratic discourse and raises concerns about whether the government is intentionally avoiding the issue of Basotho land rights to preserve political convenience.
The suspension of Mr. Japan Mntambo by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is troubling for several reasons: Suppressing Legitimate Political Expression: Seeking international engagement should not be considered a crime. Rather than punishing those involved in Dr. Lipholo’s trip, the government should focus on addressing the core issues he raises. Contradicting Lesotho’s Own Diplomatic Stance: Lesotho has a history of supporting self-determination movements, including Palestine and Western Sahara. Overlooking its territorial grievances while advocating for others reflects diplomatic hypocrisy. Missed Opportunity for Constructive Dialogue: Instead of viewing Dr. Lipholo’s actions as a threat, the government should seize this moment to initiate dialogue with South Africa and international bodies on potential resolutions for the Basotho land issue.
The Israel Funding Allegations: A Cause for Concern
While Dr. Lipholo’s mission is noble in principle, rumors that Israel may be financially backing his UN trip cast a troubling shadow over his advocacy. If validated, this could have serious implications for Lesotho’s diplomatic relations and the legitimacy of his cause. Lesotho’s Strong Pro-Palestine Stance at Risk: Lesotho has long been a vocal supporter of Palestinian self-determination and has historically condemned Israel’s actions in Gaza and the West Bank. If the Basotho land question becomes entwined with Israeli geopolitical interests, it could undermine Lesotho’s credibility in international diplomacy and damage relationships with allies in Africa and the Global South.
Risk of Exploiting Basotho Nationalism for Foreign Interests: The Basotho land issue is sensitive and should be addressed with genuine national interest, not foreign manipulation. If Israel or any other foreign entity is leveraging this cause for its geopolitical gains—potentially to counter South Africa’s strong support for Palestine—Lesotho risks finding itself in a precarious position. Strained Relations with South Africa; South Africa has been a staunch critic of Israel’s policies and a firm supporter of Palestine. If Dr. Lipholo’s advocacy is perceived as being backed by Israeli interests, South Africa may view it as an indirect challenge to its foreign policy stance, leading to tensions between Maseru and Pretoria.
The Threat of Political Destabilisatin: Foreign involvement in self-determination struggles often results in long-term instability. If Lesotho permits external powers to influence its domestic issues, it risks being ensnared in a broader geopolitical struggle that could transform a legitimate historical grievance into a manipulated political tool.
To ensure that the Basotho land issue remains a national, rather than geopolitical, struggle, the Lesotho government must take control of the narrative and pursue diplomatic solutions: Establishing a Bilateral Commission with South Africa: Lesotho and South Africa should establish a joint commission to investigate historical claims and explore possible solutions without external interference. This commission should include historians, legal experts, and diplomats from both nations. Engaging SADC and the AU in Mediation: Rather than seeking assistance from controversial foreign states, Lesotho should engage African institutions such as the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the African Union (AU) to advocate for regional dialogue on territorial justice.
Strengthening Economic and Cultural Integration: Instead of focusing solely on territorial claims, Lesotho should negotiate special residency and economic rights for Basotho in historically Basotho land within South Africa, ensuring that their cultural and economic needs are safeguarded without provoking diplomatic tensions. Legal Arbitration through the International Court of Justice (ICJ): If negotiations falter, Lesotho could take the matter to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) for a legal ruling based on historical treaties and colonial agreements. This path would offer a peaceful, structured resolution to the issue.
Protecting Lesotho’s Diplomatic Integrity: The government must ensure that Lesotho’s foreign policy remains consistent and independent. Any association with Israeli funding could jeopardize Lesotho’s international standing, especially among African nations that support Palestine.
Dr. Lipholo’s advocacy is valid and necessary, but the rumours of Israeli funding, if accurate, threaten to compromise the legitimacy of his mission. The Basotho land issue is a national concern that must be resolved by Basotho, for Basotho, without external manipulation. Lesotho’s government should recognise that suppressing this discussion will not make the issue disappear. Instead, it should seize the opportunity to engage in diplomatic negotiations, legal arbitration, and economic integration strategies that protect Basotho’s rights without inciting unnecessary conflict with South Africa. One lesson from history is clear: self-determination movements must remain independent to maintain credibility. Lesotho should not allow a genuine historical struggle to be manipulated in foreign political games. The future of the Basotho people must be decided in Maseru, Pretoria, and international legal forums—not in Tel Aviv. The Future is NOW!
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