— former GS eulogized as a selfless man
Moroke Sekoboto
MOURNERS at yesterday’s memorial service for the late former Government Secretary, Moahloli Mphaka, described him as a prolific leader and a selfless civil servant who devoted his life to public service.
Mr Mphaka, a distinguished accountant and politician, passed away on April 26, 2025, at the age of 49, succumbing to an asthma attack just hours after celebrating his birthday with family and friends. He will be buried on Saturday in Ha Thetsane, Maseru.
The memorial service, held at the Manthabiseng Convention Centre, was attended by various dignitaries including government officials, politicians, mainly from Mr Mphaka’s All Basotho Convention (ABC), and members of the public, all united in remembering a man whose legacy was marked by integrity, dedication, and unwavering commitment both to the nation and his profession.
Speaker after speaker reflected on Mr Mphaka’s professionalism, humility, and unwavering commitment to public service, painting a portrait of a respected leader whose impact will be felt for years to come.
Throughout his distinguished career, Mr Mphaka held significant positions in both the private and public sectors.
He served as the President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Lesotho Institute of Accountants, as well as the Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Trade and Industry. He notably held the role of Government Secretary between 2014-2015 and 2017-2020 under former Prime Minister Thomas Thabane and also served as a government advisor to the Lesotho Highlands Water Project (LHWP). At the time of his passing, he was a Managing Partner at MATS Chartered Accountants and Tax Consultants.
Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office, Limpho Tau, remembered Mr Mphaka as a man who served Lesotho with dignity, dedication, and distinction. Mr Tau said Basotho had lost someone with a true sense of humour.
“Mr Mphaka served the country with unwavering devotion and integrity. He diligently maintained meticulous records, unlike some other public servants,” Mr Tau said.
“When we needed documents for the Bi-National Commission, we struggled to find files in certain ministries due to poor coordination, but Mr Mphaka’s records were always in order.”
Mr Tau expressed deep condolences to the Mphaka family and the Basotho people, saying, “We have lost a humble person, a man of principle who has contributed immensely to Lesotho’s transformation. This is a great loss for Lesotho.”
Legislator and former Ministry of Home Affairs Principal Secretary, ‘Machabana Lemphane-Letsie, spoke on behalf of Mr Mphaka’s former colleagues.
She highlighted his decades-long career, marked by unwavering integrity, professionalism, and a deep commitment to national development. Ms Lemphane-Letsie described Mr Mphaka as a man of humility, strong leadership, and steadfast dedication to the Basotho people.
“Moahloli Mphaka’s legacy is etched not only in the institutions he helped build, but also in the hearts of those he mentored and served,” she said.
“He was not just a public servant, but a pillar of moral clarity and an exemplar of patriotic service. His impact will resonate for generations to come.”
Nkaku Kabi, leader of the ABC, expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Mr Mphaka, a staunch party member since its inception in October 2006.
Mr Kabi said they had suffered a great loss, as Mr Mphaka played a key role in the party, including developing its manifesto, programmes and other critical policy documents.
“We have lost a compassionate person with a clear vision, intelligence, and humanity. He contributed greatly to the growth of the ABC, and his guidance would have been invaluable as we restructure after facing recent challenges,” Mr Kabi said.
He extended condolences to the ABC, the Mphaka family, and the Basotho people in general.
Speaking to the Lesotho Times last week, Mr Mphaka’s eldest brother, former Accountant General Sam Mphaka, said his youngest brother’s demise was a profound loss to their family.
In a heartfelt tribute, Sam shared the profound impact his brother had on their family.
“His unexpected demise has left us in disbelief. Knowing that we will never see him again cuts deep. He was not just a brother; he was a unifying force for our family,” Sam reflected.
He described Mr Mphaka as a natural leader, characterized by warmth and insight, and credited him with cultivating a legacy of love and unity that the family would strive to uphold.
