Lehlohonolo Motsoari
The Minister of Tourism, Sports, Arts, and Culture, Motlatsi Maqelepo, embodied the nation’s grief following the tragic deaths of two prominent artists, Khopolo Kholuoe and Bokang ‘Moleli, who is also known as Malome Vector.
During an emergency, emotionally-charged media conference in Maseru yesterday, Maqelepo noted the collective shock and sorrow engulfing the country over the two deaths which happened four days apart.
There is no doubt that the tragic loss of these artists has left a void in Lesotho’s musical landscape, highlighting the importance of the arts in the nation’s identity and economy, and Maqelepo expressed his deepest condolences to the families, friends, and fans of the deceased artists.
“We received devastating news about the tragic deaths of some of our beloved artists. Bokang ‘Moleli, widely known as Malome Vector, tragically passed away in a car accident in South Africa on Wednesday, alongside his South African colleagues Damos and Lizwi,” Maqelepo announced.
Maqelepo also mourned the loss of the famo artist Khopolo Kholuoe, also known by his stage name Lisuoa, who was murdered alongside female radio presenter, Pulane Macheli. The minister further noted the loss of other undisclosed artists in recent times.
“This is a tremendous loss for our country, especially during a period when the music industry has been contributing significantly to our economy,” Maqelepo added.
The Chief Executive Officer of the Lesotho Copyright Society of Authors and Artists (LESCOSAA), Makhukhumala Kama echoed Maqelepo’s sentiments, emphasising the economic impact of these losses.
“The NSDP II has identified the creative industry as a vital component of our national economy. The loss of any artist is a blow to the country’s economic and cultural fabric,” she said.
Lisuoa’s fans woke up to the shocking news of his demise last Sunday morning, with many mourning the loss of the Mafeteng-born hitmaker over different social media platforms. Despite a ban on famo music, Lisuoa’s influence remained strong, evident in the outpouring of the online grief.
A few days later, the news of Malome Vector’s untimely passing plunged the nation into another collective meltdown. Known for his forays into the South Africa’s music industry, Malome Vector gained fame after being signed by Ambitiouz Records, where he won accolades including the South African Music Award (SAMA) for Best Music Video of the Year in 2021 for his collaboration on “Price to Pay” with Miss Pru DJ and Blaq Diamond.
He was also nominated for the MTV Africa Music Awards (MAMA) in the “Listeners’ Choice”category, representing Lesotho against top African artists like Tiwa Savage and Sarkodie.
