By Thoboloko Ntšonyane
MASERU- A member of the Movement for Economic Change (MEC), who is also its proportional representation (PR) member ‘Malebohang Pule was on Monday sworn in as an MP.
This development follows Hon ‘Mantoetse Mohatonyane’s recent resignation from Parliament, effective September 9, 2024, as she took up the role as Lesotho’s Ambassador to Brussels, Belgium.
Mohatonyane, who served during her tenure, is the second MEC MP to step down during the 11th Parliament. Her resignation follows that of Hon Tšepang Tšita-Mosena, the party’s deputy leader, who vacated her seat on the first day of the MPs’ swearing-in in October 2022, to take up the role of Deputy Speaker of Parliament.
A teacher by profession, Hon Pule, a businesswoman and a political figure under the MEC banner since 2017, had previously contested in the 2017 and 2022 national elections in Qacha’s Nek No. 69. Although she did not win a constituency seat, she was next on the party’s PR list.
She is one of the first contesting members of MEC since its debut in politics in 2017 saying she joined MEC because she liked the policies of her leader Hon Selibe Mochoboroane.
The MEC is part of the coalition government and has five members in the National Assembly, including Hon Napo Moshoeshoe, Hon Pule, Hon Chabaseile Mabusela, Hon Motlalepula Khahloe, and Hon Mochoboroane, the leader and Minister of Health.
During the swearing-in ceremony, the Deputy Speaker urged her to step into the shoes of her predecessor and contribute robustly to parliamentary debates. She encouraged members to welcome her and provide the necessary support.
The Deputy Speaker highlighted Mohatonyane’s reputation as a hard-working legislator and encouraged Pule to continue that legacy, particularly in shaping laws that serve the people of Lesotho.
Pule expressed her commitment to serving her constituents through active participation in parliamentary processes. She assured her readiness to play a meaningful role in Parliament, especially at a time when national and legislative reforms are underway.
“It is gratifying to step into the shoes of a hard-working person. This means I will push myself to ensure there is no gap between me and my predecessor,” she said.
The Democratic Congress (DC) PR Member, Hon Hlalele Letšaba congratulated her, stating that being appointed to Parliament is one of the greatest responsibilities one can be entrusted with in serving their country.
With Hon Pule now seated, Mosena said she is impressed by the fact that Pule is a woman saying this move demonstrates women’s influence in the areas of governance and in leadership positions.