We were all left dumb-founded when the three heads of the security forces – the army, police and intelligence services – vowed to clamp down on attempts by members of parliament to remove the government through a vote of no-confidence.
In a much-publicised statement read by police commissioner Molibeli Holomo, the security forces accuse the opposition of conspiring to oust the legitimate and constitutionally elected government of Lesotho.
Yet, the same national constitution that they claim to subscribe to provides for – in black and white – the removal of a prime minister through a no-confidence vote.
Which constitution were they referring to? Definitely not Lesotho’s.
Like civil society organisations say, in a constitutional democracy such as Lesotho, the security forces play a pivotal role. Their primary duty is to protect the nation and its citizens while upholding the rule of law. This critical role necessitates an unwavering commitment to political neutrality, ensuring that they do not become embroiled in political disputes or partisan affairs.
The security forces, as bastions of national security, are entrusted with the sacred duty of preserving the integrity of our democratic processes while abstaining from political interference.
We agree fully and stand behind these assertions.
As a matter of fact, the security forces’ utterances border on undermining and abrogating the constitution. This means they are disloyal to the supreme law of the country. They are treasonous, and a danger to the country.
