Lesotho: Journalist abducted, assaulted and threatened

On September 5, journalist and human rights defender Kananelo Boloetse was abducted from his home in Maseru, Lesotho’s capital. His abductors interrogated him about his journalism and human rights work. They also assaulted him and threatened to kill him.

The attackers abandoned Kananelo 24 kilometres from his home. He had serious injuries.

The Lesotho authorities must urgently ensure Kananelo Boloetse’s safety. They must also carry out a prompt, thorough, independent and impartial investigation. Anyone suspected of criminal responsibility must face justice through fair proceedings.

Here’s what you can do:

Write to the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Lesotho urging him to:

• Ensure a prompt, thorough, independent and impartial investigation into his reported abduction, assault and death threats, and that anyone suspected of criminal responsibility is brought to justice in fair proceedings;
• Ensure that journalists and human rights defenders in Lesotho can carry out their work freely and safely, without violence, intimidation or reprisals.

Write to:
Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Lesotho
The Right Honourable Samuel Ntsokoane Matekane
Office of the Prime Minister
Maseru, Lesotho
Email: [email protected]
X: @LesothoPR
Salutation: Dear Prime Minister,

And copy:
His Excellency Malehlanye Constantinus RALEJOE
High Commissioner
High Commission for the Kingdom of Lesotho
130 Albert Street, Suite 1820
Ottawa, ON K1P 5G4
Tel: (613) 234-0770 Fax: (613) 234-5665
Email: [email protected]

Who is Kananelo Boloetse?

Kananelo Boloetse is a journalist and human rights defender. He is a former Chairperson of MISA Lesotho, a regional media freedom organization that promotes and defends freedom of expression, media freedom, access to information and the safety of journalists across Southern Africa.

He also works with Section 2 Advocates for the Supremacy of the Constitution. The civic organization focuses on constitutional democracy, freedom of expression and civic space.

Abduction and possible surveillance

Following the attack, Kananelo Boloetse received treatment in hospital and was later released.

Newsday Media reported that a silver Toyota Starlet repeatedly drove along Kananelo’s street in the hours before his abduction. The vehicle also stopped opposite his home. This has raised concerns that someone may have been monitoring him. The identity and affiliation of the people in the vehicle remain unknown.

Human rights concerns in Lesotho

Kananelo Boloetse’s case comes amid wider human rights concerns in Lesotho. These include torture and other ill-treatment, unlawful use of force and a lack of accountability for abuses by security institutions.

During its 2025 Universal Periodic Review, Lesotho accepted recommendations on preventing torture and other ill-treatment. The recommendations also addressed accountability for abuses by security forces and the protection of freedom of expression and journalists.

Amnesty International has also called on the authorities to investigate allegations of torture, other ill-treatment and unlawful killings involving the police and the Lesotho Defence Force. Amnesty has also called for stronger independent oversight of the security sector.

Please take action as soon as possible until March 10, 2027. The UA will be duly updated should there be the need for further action.