Maseru – The Evidence Leader, Advocate Makhele Sekati wants two more officers to be summoned to the Commission of inquiry at Maseru Central Correctional Institution (MCCI).
This he said after it appeared on December 22, 2023 footage that the said officers whose names were mentioned during Assistant Commissioner, Tsoto Manaka’s cross examination that they took part in assaulting inmates that led to Bokang Tsoako losing his life while others were injured.
These officers are said to have amongst others held and stepped on Tsoako as depicted by the footage.
Meanwhile, the Assistant Commissioner indicated although it is not clear as to what they are pinning down, but he believes that is the late Tsoako as he was in the office which the officers were in at the time of assault.
As Manaka was watching the footage and being cross examined, more names kept on coming and it is assumed that the Commission will then summon such officers.
Meanwhile, Lesotho Correctional Service (LCS) Former Commissioner, Mojalefa Thulo will not participate in all affairs of the MCCI.
This is according to the Commission’s Chairman, Justice Realeboha Mathaba. He revealed this is so because Thulo is related to other officer contributing in helping the Commission investigate circumstances leading to assault and torture of inmates that happened within the facility in December last year.
Clarifying on record, Justice Mathaba repeated that even though this is not the court proceedings and no one is being accused, stating putting the Commissioner aside in matters relating to such an officer is by all means intended to reflect fairness and transparency of the team.
“He will not ask such an officer question or participate in Commission’s recommendations when it comes to the said officer,” he stated.
Justice Mathaba assured the nation that the Commission seeks to ensure transparency in all ways for promotion of the rights of all.
Commission’s time has been extended from two months until September end to allow for covering of all angles and issues emerging, the Agency has established.
Over and above that, The Ministry of Justice and Law budget has been extended from 2. 2 million to now over M 7 million.
The Commission is made up of Chairman Mathaba, Mr. Thulo as well as Former Ambassador, Advocate Kelebone Maope. Processes of the Commission are being interpreted for the sake of clear recordings.
