Dr. Tshepo Lipholo, an MP representing the Basotho Covenant Movement (BCM), has been charged with making incendiary claims that the monarchy has effectively signed over Lesotho’s sovereignty to South Africa, dubbing it the 10th province of its larger neighbor. His statements are alleged to have been made between April and June, spanning various media platforms.
In a court appearance earlier this week, Lipholo sought bail, which was deferred until later this month. He faces accusations ranging from undermining the dignity of the royal family to inciting public disorder. Notably, Lipholo had earlier proposed that significant territories in South Africa—including the Free State—should revert to Lesotho as they were historically inhabited by the Basotho people before colonial land seizures in the 19th century.
The response from South African officials highlights skepticism regarding Lipholo’s territorial claims. The 1964 Cairo Declaration, which calls for respect of modern national borders established post-colonization, serves as a primary obstacle to such territorial adjustments.
New developments also saw the arrest of Major General Samuel Makoro, a retired army officer, on allegations that he provided support and sensitive information to Lipholo. According to his legal representatives, they have until July 25, 2025, to present arguments for his release from custody.
Despite his party holding just a single seat in parliament, Lipholo's assertions bring into focus the historical complex of territorial integrity and national identity for the Basotho, thus capturing the attention of both local and international observers.
In a court appearance earlier this week, Lipholo sought bail, which was deferred until later this month. He faces accusations ranging from undermining the dignity of the royal family to inciting public disorder. Notably, Lipholo had earlier proposed that significant territories in South Africa—including the Free State—should revert to Lesotho as they were historically inhabited by the Basotho people before colonial land seizures in the 19th century.
The response from South African officials highlights skepticism regarding Lipholo’s territorial claims. The 1964 Cairo Declaration, which calls for respect of modern national borders established post-colonization, serves as a primary obstacle to such territorial adjustments.
New developments also saw the arrest of Major General Samuel Makoro, a retired army officer, on allegations that he provided support and sensitive information to Lipholo. According to his legal representatives, they have until July 25, 2025, to present arguments for his release from custody.
Despite his party holding just a single seat in parliament, Lipholo's assertions bring into focus the historical complex of territorial integrity and national identity for the Basotho, thus capturing the attention of both local and international observers.
