A multitude of people from all walks of life paid their tribute to the former Minister of Local Government and Chieftainship Affairs, Mr. Habofanoe Lehana who was laid to rest at Mahlatsa, Berea on Friday.
Speaking on behalf of His Majesty, the Principal Chief of Matsieng, Chief Seeiso Bereng Seeiso described Mr. Lehana as a generous person during his tenure in office where he worked directly with the chiefs.
Chief Seeiso urged the family that during this difficult time, they should not be quick to judge God for the deceased untimely departure, but rather seek the cross of Jesus because that is where they can find refuge and comfort.
He urged his children to continue respecting their mother as well as taking her advice.
Sharing the same sentiments, the Prime Minister, Mr. Ntsokoane Samuel Matekane said he was among the luckiest to know the family of the deceased some years back when his father established a business at Mantšonyane and that bond became strong when he became a friend to the deceased, saying the country has lost one of the most working persons.
In his remarks, the former prime Minister also the leader of the All Basotho Convention (ABC), Mr. Thomas Motsoahae Thabane said through the death of an iconic leader who once dedicated his life for effective service delivery, he urges people and leadership to change their hearts so that together they can transform this country to be a better state where peace and harmony prevail for the development of the country.
Also speaking, the Principal Chief of Kueneng and Mapoteng, Chief Peete Lesaoana Peete said His Majesty has lost one of the most dedicated and trustworthy civil servants who never looked upon himself, but who used to put people’s interests first as he has pioneered massive projects countrywide.
Chief Peete further urged his family to continue the excellent work he was doing, adding though he was well educated, he used to value Basotho norms and ways of living.
Representing the family, Mr. Mahlakajoe Lehana said the deceased succumbed to asthma on July 09, however saying he was already managing it. He said the deceased was one of the prominent farmers among his social roles.
Mr. Habofanoe Lehana was born on March 13, 1960 at Mahlatsa. He was the second child of Mr. Tšiu Lehana and Mrs. Mamahlakajoe Lehana. He completed his primary education at Likheo Primary School and proceeded to Dahon High School and later to Mabathoana High School and studied at the National University of Lesotho (NUL) as well as the Sheffield University and Institute of Development Management (IDM).
He worked at the Ministry of Interior Refugees Coordination Unit, Department of Lands, Surveys and Physical Planning, Maseru City Council and the Lesotho Housing and Land Development Corporation.
Mr. Lehana served as a Minister in the Ministries of Local Government and Chieftainship Affairs, Trade and Industry and Law and Constitutional Affairs.
Source: LENA 28/07/2023
