Lesotho’s security chiefs have sounded the alarm over what they describe as a growing insurgency involving the recruitment and military training of Basotho youths on farms in neighbouring South Africa, raising fears of destabilisation and foreign interference.
In a joint press briefing at police headquarters in Maseru at the weekend, the heads of the Lesotho Defence Force, Lesotho Mounted Police Service and other national security organs alleged that a group calling itself Malata Naha – translated as “land reclaimers” – is conducting paramilitary training with support from foreign actors.
Without providing details, Commissioner of Police Borotho Matsoso said security agencies have observed a concerning trend whereby the group is allegedly recruiting Basotho youth from within the country and abroad to undergo military training at certain farms in South Africa.
He described the operation as showing “clear signs of rebellion against the government of Lesotho” and accused the group of human trafficking and terrorism.
“These activities not only violate our national laws but threaten to destabilise peace, security and diplomatic relations with neighbouring countries, especially South Africa,” said Matsoso who spoke on behalf of the security chiefs.
The group is reportedly linked to a campaign advocating for the return of territories historically claimed by Lesotho, including parts of South Africa’s Free State, KwaZulu-Natal, Mpumalanga and Eastern Cape.
The police chief confirmed that Lesotho is working with South African authorities although no arrests have been made across the border and no evidence has been publicly presented to support the claims.
The security officials also revealed that members of parliament and religious leaders are under investigation for allegedly supporting the insurgent campaign.
The briefing followed the 2 July arrest of member of parliament Tšepo Lipholo, leader of the Basotho Covenant Movement, who remains in custody facing charges of sedition, incitement and contempt.
Lipholo’s party has long campaigned for the reclamation of territories it says were “conquered” from Lesotho. His bail application is currently before the High Court.
Prime Minister Samuel Matekane defended the arrest, stating that the government had uncovered actions “intended to disrupt peace, security and national stability.”
While acknowledging the legitimacy of historical land claims, Matekane warned against “reckless actions” that incite violence and undermine national unity.
The opposition has, however, dismissed the security chiefs’ claims as politically motivated, arguing that if the claims were indeed correct then the South African government would have issued a statement since the said training is a threat to its sovereignty.
The allegations have sparked intense debate in Lesotho, with critics warning of a potential crackdown on dissent and supporters of Lipholo calling for constitutional reform to address long-standing territorial grievances.
The government has yet to release further details on the investigation or provide evidence of foreign involvement.
JN/APA