Maseru, Nov. 09 — The 2025 armistice day came at a time when Lesotho is heading for its diamond Jubilee celebration, 60 years of independence.
The ceremony, held at the newly renovated Makoanyane Square saw the King ushering a veteran representative who participated in the first and second world wars of 1914-1918 and 1939-1945 to the laying of wreaths.
He was followed by the Prime Minister Mr. Nsokoane Matekane, Speaker of the National Assembly, Deputy President of Senate, Chief Justice, Lesotho Defence Force (LDF) Commander and Heads of Diplomatic Missions in Lesotho.
Speaking in an interview with the Agency, a retired veteran who was in the war Sergeant Mokhejane Khaile expressed pride over renovation of Makoanyane Square, saying it gives them hope and shows growth of the commemoration especially when the country is about to celebrate 60 years of independence.
He also said it was by the grace of God that they came back alive as the war, which was fought in the sea, sky and ground was long and tough.
Meanwhile, LDF being the host of the event commenced the commemoration with firing of the gun and there was two minutes-moment of silence.
It culminated with the sounded last post which was embedded on a hym “Lala ho ‘na ” and was later wrapped-up with thapelo ea Basotho song amongst others.
The Agency has learnt that only four veterans are still alive and aged between 95 and 103 years.
It was earlier reported that LDF ensures that they are well taken care of as it provides them with health services at their homes on a monthly basis and ensures that they have food amongst others.
Reports indicate that out of 21, 463 Basotho who were in the army, 1,105 of them were killed away from their homes and families.
Armistice day is commemorated annually to pay tribute to Lesotho soldiers who fell during the first and second world wars as well as to mark the armistice agreement signed between the Allies and Germany on the 11th hour of the 11 day that brought an end to the First World War.
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