Lesotho MP Dr Tshepo Lipholo faces criminal charges for claiming that Lesotho’s government and monarchy surrendered national control to South Africa. His remarks, made via radio and social media between April and June 2025, triggered accusations of sedition, incitement, and defamation.
Authorities say the Lesotho MP Dr Tshepo Lipholo declared himself Lesotho’s chief ruler and used provocative language, calling the nation South Africa’s tenth province. The state views these actions as a direct attack on the dignity of King Letsie III, Lesotho’s constitutional monarch.
Dr Lipholo leads the Basotho Covenant Movement (BCM), which holds a single seat in parliament. He argues that South Africa’s Free State, Northern Cape, Mpumalanga, Eastern Cape, and KwaZulu-Natal were historically Basotho territory. According to him, Afrikaners seized these lands in the 19th century, and Lesotho has a rightful claim to them.
In parliament, Dr Tshepo Lipholo cited a 1962 UN resolution that supports self-determination. However, his motion received no significant backing. Critics say it violates the 1964 Cairo Declaration, which urged African countries to respect colonial-era borders and avoid conflict.
Controversy deepened when Lipholo referred to himself as the paramount chief of Basutoland, the colonial name for Lesotho. The move defied the existing monarchy and stirred backlash. Security forces also arrested retired Major General Samuel Makoro for allegedly aiding Lipholo and leaking sensitive government data.
On July 14, Lesotho MP Dr Tshepo Lipholo appeared in court seeking bail. The magistrate postponed the hearing to July 25, giving his lawyers time to file defense arguments. He remains in police custody under tight surveillance.
South African officials dismissed Lipholo’s claims as unrealistic. The Department of International Relations confirmed that altering African borders is not up for discussion. This stance aligns with African Union policy.
In a surprising turn, Lipholo expressed intent to present the issue before the British Parliament. He claims Britain failed to address colonial land injustices during Lesotho’s 1966 independence. Whether this diplomatic appeal gains traction remains uncertain.
The Lesotho MP Dr Tshepo Lipholo case illustrates how unresolved colonial grievances continue to influence modern African politics. It also raises legal and political questions about freedom of speech, territorial integrity, and the role of historical memory.
Lesotho’s future stability may hinge on how leaders respond to such provocative claims. The July 25 court decision will likely shape the country’s political direction and diplomatic posture.
