‘Lehasa will be sorely missed’

By Mohalenyane Phakela

MASERU — People’s Choice news anchor Relebohile “Pearly Popz” Lehasa succumbed to tuberculosis last Thursday morning at Queen ‘Mamohato Memorial Hospital.

According to her brother, Bahlakoana Lehasa, a presenter at Radio Lesotho, his 29-year-old sister passed away two days after being admitted to the hospital.
“Relebohile got ill in July last year and we took her to a hospital in Botswana the following month. She did not spent much time there as she got better,” Lehasa said.
“Her situation worsened again in January and she spent the whole month bed-ridden. She got better until two days before her death when we had to rush her to the hospital where she lost her life.”

Also speaking to the newspaper on Tuesday, People’s Choice management said Relebohile was an asset to the station.
“Since she joined us in December 2008, Relebohile played a pivotal role in the development of the station,” said Kholu Qhobela.
“Relebohile was a loving and caring person who enjoyed and loved her job, and a family person. She would not spent a day without contacting her parents.
“When people work together, they develop that special bond, and we here at PCFM have become more of a family than just colleagues.
“Her dedication and high level of professionalism carried her through and most importantly her contribution as a news reporter,” said Qhobela.
“We have lost a family member and the pain is unbearable, her influence in the industry will never be forgotten.”

Adding to that, former colleague Tlhokaboyo Mohasi, said: “We have known each other for a long time through social networks and became closer when I joined the station in 2011.
“Pearly was always bubbly, gifted with a singing ability and ready to assist every time I needed her. Although she was in the news department, she would cover for me on air when I did not pitch in time for my programme. She always wore a smile even in difficult situations, I will miss her.”

Relebohile Lehasa is survived by a son, her parents and brother Bahlakoana. Her memorial service will be held on Wednesday April 23, although the venue is yet to be confirmed. She will be laid to rest at Mahuu in Rothe on April 26.