Maseru, Apr.15 – The Lesotho Correctional Service (LCS) has failed to implement the majority of recommendations made by the Office of the Ombudsman regarding conditions in correctional facilities across the country.
According to the Ombudsman’s follow-up report on inspections of correctional institutions, only about nine percent of the 78 recommendations issued in 2023 have been implemented, leaving 91 percent unaddressed.
The report indicates that overcrowding has worsened significantly, with the inmate population increasing from 1,835 in 2023 to 2,757 as of March 2026. It notes that the Maseru Central Correctional Institution (MCCI), designed to accommodate 500 inmates, is currently housing 971 detainees.
“About 50 percent of facilities remain overcrowded, with some cells accommodating up to three times their intended capacity,” the report states.
It further highlights that healthcare services within correctional facilities have reached a critical level, citing systemic challenges in access and resources. Diseases such as pellagra, scabies and tuberculosis are reported to be prevalent among inmates.
The report also notes that inmates continue to receive a limited and repetitive diet consisting mainly of porridge and beans or peas. Meanwhile, correctional officers have reportedly not received new uniforms since 2016, and some recruits engaged during that period only received formal training in 2023.
Additionally, the report points to persistent underfunding of LCS, with facilities lacking essential supplies including cleaning materials, medical resources, food, vehicles, communication tools and equipment.
In an interview with the Agency, the Minister of Law and Justice, Mr. Richard Ramoeletsi, said although he had not yet seen the Ombudsman’s follow-up report, the ministry has plans to rehabilitate correctional facilities in Botha-Bothe, Teyateyaneng, Quthing and Qacha’s Nek, as well as construct a female correctional facility in Mohale’s Hoek during the 2026/2027 financial year…
LP/BM
