MASERU – The Lesotho Police Staff Association (LEPOSA) has formally rejected the 2% salary increase proposed in the 2026/27 national budget, arguing that the adjustment is far below inflation and has significantly eroded the real incomes of police officers over the past several years.
In a memorandum dated 23 February 2026 and addressed to its regional and district committees and entire membership, LEPOSA leadership said the proposed increment fails to protect police officers from rising living costs and does not reflect the economic realities facing public servants.
The rejection signals growing dissatisfaction within the country’s security services and raises fresh questions about public sector wage policy at a time when the government is under pressure to balance fiscal discipline with social stability.
2% Salary Increase “Far Below Inflation”
According to LEPOSA, the proposed 2% increase is “far below the current rate of inflation and fails to protect our real incomes.”
The association noted that this marks the fourth consecutive year in which government has granted only a 2% annual salary increase, without adequately accounting for rising costs of food, transport, housing, and other essentials.
“This has eroded our buying power and placed severe strain on our livelihoods,” the memorandum states.
Inflation reduces the value of money over time, meaning that even when salaries increase nominally, workers may effectively become poorer if the increase is lower than inflation.
Government Owes Police and Public Servants an Estimated 37%
In one of the most striking claims, LEPOSA estimates that government now owes public servants approximately 37% in cumulative salary adjustments that should have been implemented to match inflation over previous years.
The association said this shortfall has had direct consequences, including:
• Reduced living standards for police officers and their families
• Lower pension contributions due to suppressed salaries
• Reduced future pension payouts
This introduces long-term financial insecurity not only for current officers but also for retirees.
Risk Allowance Dispute Remains Unresolved
LEPOSA also raised concerns about delays in implementing improved police risk allowances.
The association said discussions with government over the past three years had included proposals to increase risk allowances from:
• M1,500 to M500 per phase, and
• Adjust daily risk compensation currently standing at M3 per day and M100 per month
Despite acknowledging the dangers faced by police officers, LEPOSA said government has maintained existing rates.
“This is unacceptable given the real risks and sacrifices we make daily,” the association said.
Police officers are among the most exposed public servants, regularly facing armed criminals, civil unrest, and other life-threatening situations.
LEPOSA Calls on Government to Review Salary Increase Immediately
The association has now issued a formal call for government to:
• Immediately review the proposed 2% increase
• Align salary adjustments with the current inflation rate, estimated at 4.2%
• Provide a clear plan to address the cumulative 37% salary gap
The demand places additional pressure on the Ministry of Finance and the government of Prime Minister Sam Matekane, which has already indicated fiscal constraints limit its ability to increase spending significantly.
Wider Impact on Lesotho’s Economy and Public Service
LEPOSA warned that the issue extends beyond police officers and affects the broader functioning of the state.
“These issues affect not only Association members but the broader Basotho nation, as the public relies on us for essential services,” the memorandum states.
The association emphasized that fair compensation is essential to maintaining morale, professionalism, and effective service delivery.
Public sector wages are a critical component of Lesotho’s economy, supporting thousands of households and influencing consumer spending.
Possible Collective Action Being Considered
While stopping short of announcing immediate industrial action, LEPOSA indicated it is considering possible collective measures while continuing engagement with government.
“We are committed to ensuring that Basotho continue to receive the best possible services from our members,” the association said.
It added that further updates would be communicated to members as discussions progress.
Growing Public Sector Wage Pressure After Budget
The dispute comes just days after the government tabled the 2026/27 national budget, which included the 2% salary increase for civil servants.
The budget has already sparked debate, with critics arguing that government is effectively shifting economic burdens onto public servants while prioritizing infrastructure and fiscal consolidation.
Related article https://lesothotribune.co.ls/budget-2026-27-triggers-wave-of-public-disappointment-lesotho-tribune-sentiment-tracker-shows/
