Despite chilly weather conditions, multitudes of Basotho, young and old from all corners of the country rushed to the Setsoto Stadium at 5:30 a.m. to witness the celebration of the 60th birthday of His Majesty King Letsie III.
The Setsoto Stadium, which accommodates about 14 000 people was full to its capacity by 9:30 a.m
The Parade and guard of honour, which the King usually inspect during this kind of event was not on the grounds when the King arrived as the country is trying to be progressive.
His Majesty, glad in red Military Uniform arrived in an unusual manner and was received by ululations by Basotho upon his arrival with Her Majesty Queen Masenate Mohato Seeiso.
It was reported that the Parade commenced with a march in the streets of Maseru as a sign of peace and demonstration that it can walk a long distance demonstrating peace.
The objective was also to give His Majesty an opportunity to witness the magnificent arrival of the parade in the stadium.
Speaking in an interview with the Agency, Mr. Leabua Mpota from Mohale’s Hoek said he arrived at the stadium around 6:00 a.m. when the gates were opened.
He said he could not watch the event on Lesotho Television or listen to the radio because he wanted to see the celebration in person.
“This is not an ordinary birthday but a Diamond Jubilee as His Majesty the King celebrates 60 years and 25 years since his coronation as the King,” he said.
On the other hand, a 70-year-old Mrs Mathobo Damazane said she arrived at the stadium at 6:30 a.m. so that she could get a seat on time before the stadium gets full to watch the celebration peacefully without any disturbance.
She also said she could not watch the television or listen to the radio because she wanted to see the celebration in person, wishing the King a happy birthday.
In addition, Reatile Khati said he wanted to see this historic and significant event live because they are taught about the royal family at school.
“I only saw His Majesty on television and wanted to see him live,” he said.
International visitors who graced His Majesty’s birthday celebration include President Mokgweetsi Masisi of Botswana, His Majesty King Mswati III of eSwatiniand the Zimbabwean Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Relations, Mr. Frederick Shava.
Also present were, the Prime Minister, Mr. Samuel Matekane, Deputy Prime Minister Justice Nthomeng Majara, Former Prime Minister, Dr Motsoahae Thomas Thabane, Speaker of the National Assembly, Heads of Diplomatic Missions in Lesotho, Cabinet members and government dignitaries.
His Majesty was born on July 17, 1963 at Scott Hospital in Morija. He attended School at Iketsetseng Primary School, other schools in England and the National University of Lesotho (NUL).
He was inaugurated as the Principal Chief of Matsieng on December 16, 1989. His coronation took place at the Setsoto Stadium on October 31, 1997.
He was appointed the Food and Agriculture Organization’s Special Ambassador for Nutrition in 2016.
His Majesty was joined in holy matrimony with Her Majesty Queen Masenate Mohato Seeiso (Karabo Motšoeneng) on February 18, 2000. They are blessed with two daughters and a son; Princess Senate, Princess Maseeiso and Prince Lerotholi.
Source: LENA 17/07/2023
