Maseru, Jan. 20 — Discussions regarding the repatriation of the bodies of South African citizens who were victims of the Maseru massacre are said to be ongoing.
This was revealed by the Minister of Sports, Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mr. Motlatsi Maqelepo, while highlighting the visit of the Deputy Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture of South Africa, Ms. Peace Mabe, to Lesotho this week.
Speaking in an interview with the Agency on Tuesday, Mr. Maqelepo said Ms. Mabe’s visit follows long-standing engagements between the two countries concerning the repatriation of the deceased, adding that notable progress has been made on the matter.
He indicated that the repatriation process was prompted by pleas from the families of the deceased, who have expressed a strong desire to reunite with the remains of their loved ones and lay them to rest in South Africa.
Mr. Maqelepo further stated that, during the engagements, the two parties also discussed areas of collaboration in culture and heritage, noting that Lesotho and South Africa share common cultural activities that have the potential to boost tourism in both countries.
Moreover, he highlighted those deliberations extended to cooperation in the sports sector, particularly focusing on strategies to support and improve sports development in Lesotho.
The Maseru massacre is a tragic incident in which several South African nationals lost their lives. It is an event that continues to draw attention from both governments as efforts toward closure and healing for affected families continue.
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