Remember Your Real Task: Serving the People, Not Playing Politics

While Parliament members are fixated on the 9th Amendment, Lesotho faces pressing issues that demand immediate attention. It's time to refocus on the real task at hand: prioritizing the mandate given by the people over political games.

The Core Issue

Our politicians are more engrossed in power struggles than in fulfilling their electoral mandate. This behaviour undermines the democratic process and disregards the will of the people. The citizens of Lesotho vote for their leaders with the expectation that they will address critical issues such as economic growth, healthcare, education, and infrastructure development—not indulge in political theatrics.?

Economic Growth: Lesotho's economy is in dire need of policies that foster sustainable growth. High unemployment rates, particularly among the youth, remain a significant concern. Instead of political infighting, Parliament should focus on creating an environment conducive to job creation, supporting small businesses, and attracting foreign investment.?

Healthcare: The healthcare system in Lesotho faces numerous challenges, including inadequate facilities, a shortage of medical professionals, and limited access to essential services. MPs should prioritize healthcare reforms and ensure that every citizen has access to quality medical care.

Education: The future of Lesotho depends on an educated populace. However, the education sector is plagued by insufficient funding and poor infrastructure. Parliament must work on improving the quality of education and making it accessible to all children, thereby empowering the next generation to contribute to national development.

Infrastructure Development: Infrastructure is the backbone of any thriving economy. Lesotho needs substantial investments in roads, utilities, and digital infrastructure to facilitate commerce and improve the quality of life for its citizens. Legislators should be championing projects that enhance connectivity and promote regional integration.

Unemployment: High unemployment rates, especially among the youth, are a ticking time bomb. The government must develop and implement comprehensive strategies to reduce unemployment by fostering vocational training, supporting entrepreneurship, and creating more job opportunities in various sectors. Tackling unemployment should be a top priority for MPs, as it directly affects the socio-economic stability of the nation.

The Need for Accountability

Parliamentarians must prioritize legislative duties that benefit the nation and contribute to its growth and stability. However, the continuous cycle of motions of no confidence and subsequent snap elections is not only disruptive but also financially draining for the country. Each snap election incurs significant costs, diverting resources that could be allocated to essential services such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure development. Moreover, the uncertainty created by frequent government changes undermines investor confidence and impedes long-term planning and development initiatives.

It is imperative that the electorate's decision, expressed through the democratic process, is respected for the full term of five years, except in cases of extreme circumstances that genuinely warrant a government change. By honouring the mandate given by the people, parliamentarians demonstrate their commitment to democracy and the rule of law. They must prioritize the nation's interests above personal or party agendas, ensuring stability and continuity in governance.

Accountability is not just about holding individuals responsible for their actions; it is also about ensuring that elected representatives fulfil their duties to the best of their abilities. Parliamentarians must be held to account for their performance in office, not only during election campaigns but also throughout their tenure. Transparency, integrity, and responsiveness are essential elements of accountable governance, fostering trust between the government and the governed.

Accountability is the cornerstone of a functioning democracy. Parliamentarians must uphold their responsibilities to the electorate, prioritize national interests, and work towards the common good. By fostering a culture of accountability, we can strengthen our democracy and build a better future for all Basotho.?

Call to Action

Basotho deserve leaders who are committed not only to their own political ambitions but also to the development and welfare of the country as a whole. As citizens, it is our duty to demand accountability from our representatives and hold them to the highest standards of integrity and service.

We must remind our MPs that their primary role is to serve the people, not to engage in self-serving political battles or pursue personal agendas. It is crucial for them to prioritize the needs of the nation above all else and to channel their energy into creating and passing laws that will genuinely improve the lives of the citizens.

As voters, we have the power to hold our elected officials accountable for their actions and decisions. We must actively engage with our representatives, voice our concerns, and demand transparency and accountability in government affairs. By staying informed, participating in the democratic process, and holding our leaders accountable, we can ensure that our country moves forward on the path to stability, prosperity, and progress.

Let us unite in our call for responsible and responsive governance. Together, we can build a Lesotho that works for all its citizens, where the needs and aspirations of the people are prioritized above all else.

Conclusion

The recent political turmoil serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for political maturity and unwavering focus within our Parliament. It is a call to action for our elected officials to transcend the confines of petty politics and devote themselves wholeheartedly to the noble task of building a better future for all Basotho.

The strength of our democracy hinges upon the steadfast commitment of our leaders to the sacred mandate entrusted to them by the people. It is imperative that they rise above personal ambitions and partisan interests and instead prioritize the collective welfare and aspirations of our nation.

Parliament should be more than just a stage for power plays—it should serve as a beacon of progress and hope for our beloved country. Basotho have spoken loud and clear through their votes, expressing their hopes, dreams, and aspirations for a brighter tomorrow. It is now incumbent upon our MPs to heed that resounding voice and translate it into meaningful action.?

Let us remind our elected representatives that they are the stewards of our nation's future. They hold in their hands the power to effect real change and drive transformative progress. It is high time they prove themselves worthy of the trust and confidence placed in them by the voters.

As we look to the future, let us envision a Lesotho where unity, integrity, and shared purpose reign supreme—a Lesotho where every citizen is empowered to realize their full potential and contribute meaningfully to our collective prosperity. Together, let us forge ahead with determination and resolve, for only through concerted effort and unwavering dedication can we truly build the Lesotho of our dreams—a united and thriving nation, standing tall on the world stage.