A member of parliament in Lesotho, Dr. Tshepo Lipholo, finds himself entangled in legal troubles after alleged accusations against King Letsie III and the Lesotho government regarding the transfer of the country’s sovereignty to South Africa. The opposition figure has been charged with “violating the dignity and reputation” of the royal family and self-proclaiming as the land’s paramount chief, sparking outrage among the ruling power.
Dr. Lipholo appeared in court on Monday, however, his bail hearing has been postponed until later this month. His statements, made between April and June 2025, reportedly included claims that King Letsie III and his government had signed documents making Lesotho the tenth province of South Africa. The charges against him assert that he used "seditious words" and incited public unrest through various social media and radio platforms.
The crux of Lipholo's claims hinges on historical territories he believes should revert to Lesotho, including parts of the Free State and several provinces that were historically inhabited by the Basotho people before colonial seizure in the 19th Century. Additionally, a retired general has been arrested for allegedly supporting Lipholo’s controversial statements.
The Basotho Covenant Movement (BCM) leader's assertions are rooted in a 1962 UN resolution endorsing self-determination for the Basotho, but officials believe those claims lack majority support in Lesotho, making their likelihood of success minimal. African unity declarations affirm the safeguarding of postcolonial borders, further complicating these reclamation efforts.
Dr. Lipholo has expressed a wish for his motion to be debated in the British Parliament, citing Lesotho's colonial history and independence gained in 1966. Currently held in police custody, his legal team has until July 25, 2025, to present arguments for his release on bail amidst a tumultuous political climate in the region.
