Maseru, July. 10 — The Principal Chiefs (PCs) have voiced growing concerns over the limited legal authority they possess when making decisions on community matters.
During an engagement with representatives from the European Union (EU), the Chiefs emphasised that although their decisions are widely respected by community members, they lack legal enforceability.
Chieftainess Mamajara Molapo explained that their influence largely depends on traditional respect rather than statutory power.
“If a person chooses not to abide by our rulings, we have no legal recourse. There is simply nothing we can do,” said PC Molapo during the discussion.
She further mentioned the urgent need for the Lesotho Needs Justice Survey, a national review aimed at identifying gaps within the country’s justice system and traditional leadership structures.
She said they expect the Survey to assess how traditional leaders can be better supported and legally empowered in their roles.
Chieftainess Makholu Moshoeshoe echoed these sentiments, stating that their work often involves sensitive community disputes, including land issues, domestic conflicts, and minor civil cases. . . .
Ends/KP
