Limpho Sello
THE Matlama community this week received the Independence Torch which has been rotating throughout all 10 districts as part of the country’s commemorations of 50 years of independence.
The torch was lit by His Majesty King Letsie III on 10 August in Berea, amid calls for the country to pray for peace during the golden jubilee celebrations.
Each district kept the torch for two days before passing it to the next. It reached Maseru on Tuesday at a ceremony at St. James Primary and High School grounds ahead of the official ceremony penciled for October 4.
Maseru City Council (MCC) Mayor Ntsane Sehapi received the torch and echoed the King’s appeal for peace in the country.
“We need to have peace among us,” Mr Sehapi said, adding, “Let us allow the independence torch to bring peace among country men and women. Let it bring the unity that is cherished by the public and those in leadership”.
“During this time when the country is celebrating its 50th Anniversary, let us forgive each other. Let us only remember and focus on positive issues that take this country forward.”
Speaking at the same occasion, Deputy Minister of Home-Affairs Phallang Monare described the Golden Jubilee celebrations as an important event with biblical origins where the Israelites celebrated by lighting a ram’s horn.
“As we commemorate 50 years, this is the time to look back, to introspect and celebrate our achievements. We all know that Lesotho did not look this good 50 years ago and we have improved,” Mr Monare said.
He said among other things, Lesotho did not have 10 districts and 84 constituencies that it now boasts of. He also said it was time the country honoured its past leaders.
