We have observed with keen interest the varying and sometimes heated and confrontational debates that followed the erection of a cross on Mpilo mountain.
The move to mountain the cross on public land took all and sundry by surprise. It just happened out of the blue and was total unexpected. It later emerged that the cross was an unsolicited gift by Prime minister Samuel Matekane, to the Christian Council of Lesotho (CCL) and Basotho as a token in celebration of Basotho’s 200 years.
Yes, the cross is a gift from Matekane in his personal rather than official capacity. CCL responded by expressing concern that the gift was given without any form of engagement with the CCL, hence would cause confusion in the meaning in the Christianity of the country.
“To us, a cross is a symbol of true love from Jesus Christ that needs to treated with the upmost care. We believe that coming to issues that concern churches and Christianity on any relating to Basotho nation will engage all stakeholders or do so consultatively.
“We also plead with the nation to pardon us as we have noted the confusion caused by the cross.”
Well and fair. And we add: Lesotho is a secular state, meaning it is not connected with religious or spiritual matters.
Granted, Christianity is the dominant religion in Lesotho, but not the only one. We are worried that the PM’s gesture might be interpreted as favouring Christianity ahead of other religions. This could potentially alienate other religions.
It could also be viewed as imposing Christianity on non-Christians, and this is against the constitution.
