The Lesotho Tribune can exclusively report that Prime Minister Sam Matekane has appointed Lesotho Defence Force (LDF) Commander, Lieutenant General Mojalefa Letsoela, for a further three years. Letsoela’s original contract was due to expire on 11 August 2025, raising speculation in recent weeks about a potential leadership shake-up at the helm of the country’s armed forces.
According to well-placed sources within government, the decision to renew Letsoela’s tenure did not come easily. Cabinet was sharply divided on the matter, with some ministers reportedly pushing for a fresh appointment, citing the need for generational transition within the LDF. Others, however, argued in favour of continuity and stability within the military, especially in light of recent national and regional “developments”.
The Lesotho Tribune understands that a combination of those who want Lesotho’s stolen land (matseka naha), internal security concerns, and regional cooperation commitments tipped the scale in Letsoela’s favour.
A senior government insider said, “The Prime Minister had to make a tough call. There was no consensus in cabinet, but the decision had to be made in the interest of the state.”
Lieutenant General Letsoela, who has led the LDF since 2019, is seen by some as a steadying figure in an institution that has historically played a controversial role in Lesotho’s politics. His reappointment may signal a desire by the Matekane administration to maintain a firm grip on security matters ahead of possible governance reforms and anticipated regional defence cooperation initiatives.
The Prime Minister’s Office and the Ministry of Defence had not responded to our queries by the time of publication.
This is a developing story.
Government Secretary is expected to make an announcement anytime from now!
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This story has been updated to reflect the correct end of Commander Letsoela’s contract and his first name
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