The Deputy Prime Minister (DPM) and Minister of Justice, Law and Parliamentary Affairs, Justice Nthomeng Majara officiated a two-day workshop on International Covenant, Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) held in Maseru on Wednesday.
The workshop is a follow up to the Geneva Human Rights Seminar that was held in July this year, where Lesotho presented its status of human rights, thus bringing back ICCPR recommendations for implementation.
In her remarks, Justice Majara said in terms of human rights matters, Lesotho was last reviewed more than 20 years ago after ratification, citing a lack of reporting mechanism as one of the challenges.
However, she is adamant that Lesotho shall start reporting progress as expected and is a UN prerequisite.
“The workshop will set a stage for implementation purposes,” she said.
Justice Majara said the workshop seeks to disseminate the concluding observations on ICCPR witoraw up an implementation work plan, to guide all relevant stakeholders in implementing such recommendations.
She also highlighted the need for all stakeholders to educate society on the importance of rights in all areas, adding the country may not be able to implement all recommendations.
“Let us respect, protect and promote basic human rights within the political and economic sphere,” she stressed.
Similarly, the United Nations Resident Coordinator in Lesotho, Ms. Amanda Khozi Mukwashi said if all can enjoy human rights, Lesotho will be on the right track in promoting economic growth.
She reiterated that Lesotho has ratified UN conventions and treaties on human rights, saying even so, implementation remains critical.
Therefore, she said while talking about these issues, all should remember these are people, hence ought to be treated with respect.
She called for the National Human Rights Commission as another mechanism that can help towards the promotion of these issues.
She expressed gratitude that Lesotho is making strides, citing the passing of the Domestic Act and disability equity Act, which she said is a step ahead in promoting human rights and the enjoyment of these rights.
One of the participants who is also a human rights expert, Advocate Lineo Tsikoane highlighted the importance of ratifying conventions when the country is aware of its capacity.
Also present at the occasion included the Ministry of Justice Principal Secretary (PS) Mr. Lira Lebese and other senior officials.
Source: LENA 13/09/2023
