The Basotho Nation celebrated His Majesty King Letsie III’s birthday yesterday with a day full of entertainment.
The festivities began with a Lesotho Defence Force (LDF) parade, which lasted about an hour. Following this, members of the LDF captivated the audience by descending from helicopters with parachutes. This act held everyone’s attention as one soldier after another descended from the sky.
Entertainment from various groups, including Mokhibo, Ndlamo, Hip-hop dance, Mohobelo, and many others, was the highlight of the day. Ululations resonated from all corners of the Pitso House as people enjoyed the performances.
In an interview with LENA, some of the community members gave out their views about the day. For instance, Mamanese Janki, a youth from Ha Shepeseli, said, “It was a lovely event. I enjoyed watching the LDF come down with parachutes. I also enjoyed seeing the royal family up close rather than just on television or in newspapers. I wish we could have such big events every year so we can enjoy ourselves. I love the royal family and wish His Majesty a happy birthday.”
Thabang Ts’enolo from Phaphama also enthused, “I enjoyed the parade the most and wish I could join the army when I grow up. I also loved the LDF boot campers’ parade. It was my first time seeing the royal family, and I am happy to have seen them.”
‘Mapule Mmea from Koenaneng expressed her joy, saying, “I am happy to be part of the celebration, unlike others who will only hear about it. I have never seen such a beautiful event in my life. My wish is that His Majesty could lead the Basotho nation in preserving our culture because the bad things happening are due to people losing their way. We wish His Majesty a happy birthday and pray that God protects and keeps him safe for the Basotho nation.”
Proposing a toast to His Majesty’s birthday, Prime Minister Ntsokoane Matekane wished him good health, peace, and many more years of life.
King Letsie III, born on July 17, 1963, is the reigning monarch of Lesotho. He ascended the throne on February 7, 1996.
Source: Lesotho News Agency (LENA) 18/7/2024
