MASERU, April 20 — The Ministry of Law and Justice has on Monday held a Technical Guidance Workshop on the Legislative Enactment Process in Maseru.
The workshop aimed at improving the preparation of drafting instructions and strengthening legislative processes through the use of the newly validated Legislative Handbook.
Speaking at the workshop, Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Law and Justice, Mr. Lira Ralebese, said the country is at a defining stage where the recently amended Constitution must now be implemented through new Acts of Parliament.
He noted that these reforms are essential for strengthening governance, upholding the rule of law, and ensuring stability and prosperity. Mr. Ralebese expressed appreciation to the European Union (EU) delegation and other development partners for their continued support.
“Your contribution to institutional transformation, good governance and inclusive development reinforces shared responsibility to promote strong governance principles in the legislative process,” he highlighted.
He explained that the Ministry of Law and Justice plays a key role in translating government policies into effective laws.
He highlighted the importance of capacity building initiatives, including legislative drafting training and the use of practical tools such as the Legislative Handbook, which help improve efficiency and align processes with government priorities.
Mr. Ralebese further stressed the need for collaboration among government institutions, civil society, traditional leaders and the media in promoting transparency and accountability.
He reaffirmed government’s commitment to reform, saying partnerships and dedication will help build a stronger and more resilient nation where laws are respected and citizens can prosper.
Meanwhile, Advocate ’Mabokang Nthabiseng Sekokotoana said government ministries have, over the years, attempted to respond to public needs but often faced challenges in fully understanding them.
Adv. Sekokotoana urged stakeholders to focus on practical solutions and strengthen cooperation in addressing challenges within the legislative process.
She said the workshop aims to improve collaboration among stakeholders in law-making and enhance preparation of drafting instructions using the Legislative Handbook.
She added that it is also intended to build capacity on the roles of stakeholders and deepen understanding of the handbook as a guide for developing laws.
Advocate Sekokotoana noted that the Office of Parliamentary Counsel has reviewed existing legislation over the years and introduced revisions to strengthen the legislative framework.
She added that the workshop is expected to enhance the use of the Legislative Handbook to better support government ministries and ensure more effective legislative drafting.
“The role of Parliamentary Counsel is to guide instructing officers on the principles, techniques and standards required when submitting legislative proposals so that laws are clear, precise and legally sound,” she explained.
Also speaking at the event, Director of Policy and Strategic Planning in the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning, Mr Mokone Mokokoane, said their work is aimed at addressing institutional gaps and national challenges.
He stressed that laws and policies must be aligned and that there is a need to clearly understand the steps involved in policy-making.
Mr. Mokokoane said policies are developed to ensure effective operation of government offices and delivery of results.
He added that they also aim to solve social problems, create opportunities and ensure efficient use of resources.
He highlighted challenges such as overlapping mandates among institutions, which make implementation difficult when roles are not clearly defined.
He also pointed out weak enforcement mechanisms as a major concern.
Mr. Mokokoane said all policies must consider cross-cutting issues such as gender equality and women’s empowerment, support for persons with disabilities, environmental protection, climate change, and welfare of children and the elderly, noting that specific issues depend on the policy being developed.
The workshop sought to enhance legislative drafting capacity and promote effective collaboration among key stakeholders to support improved law-making processes in the country.
Ends/GM/MAF
