Lesotho says NO to Mzansi! – dailysun

LESOTHO Tourism, Sport, Arts and Culture Minister Steve Mputhi has dismissed calls to remove border controls between Lesotho and South Africa, saying his government has no plans to abolish the international boundary.

Mputhi said the Lesotho government respects the sovereignty of both nations and remains committed to maintaining the existing border arrangements while strengthening cooperation and promoting the shared cultural, historical and economic ties between the two neighbouring countries.

Mputhi was responding to long-overdue calls by the Free Basotho Movement Organisation, which has been advocating for Lesotho to be incorporated in South Africa as the 10th province.

“Our country has no intention of abolishing the international boundary between these two countries. We are only speaking about strengthening inter-trading as African countries.

“If we can champion inter-trading and deepen our economic cooperation, we will not need the intervention of international countries,” he said.

ALSO READ: Maspala to face tough questions over water scandal!

Mputhi further dismissed claims that the Free State and parts of the Vaal should be reclaimed as territories, allegedly taken during the colonial era.

He said such historical interpretations would not be used to justify any form of territorial revisionism or border changes.

“Lesotho is a sovereign nation, proud of its independence and identity. Our focus is not on becoming part of South Africa, but on building a stronger economy through investment, tourism, and development.

“At the same time, we value good neighbourly relations and welcome collaboration, including inviting South African artists to perform at our events, as cultural exchange strengthens the bonds between our two nations while respecting each other’s sovereignty,” he said.

During a media briefing, Mputhi declined to answer questions about reports that some Lesotho nationals were allegedly involved in illegal mining, known as zama zamas, in South Africa.

He also avoided questions about what the Lesotho government is doing to stop its citizens from engaging in crime across the border, focusing instead on the briefing’s purpose.