Maseru, Aug. 04 — Councillor Thabo Sefuthi has been elected as the new Mayor of Maseru, with Councillor Ms. Maboletsi Potiane taking the position of Deputy Mayor, following the removal of former Mayor Relebohile Sechache through a motion of no confidence.
The leadership change took place during a special sitting of the Maseru City Council on Tuesday, where 10 of the council’s 19 members voted in favour of the motion that ended Sechache’s tenure.
Mr. Sefuthi now takes responsibility for leading the capital city council, while Ms. Potiane will serve as his deputy.
The new leadership comes at a time when the council has been facing internal disagreements, with councillors raising concerns over governance, decision-making and the administration of council affairs.
Addressing the council after accepting the mayoral position, Mr. Sefuthi said he did not feel it was appropriate to celebrate given the circumstances surrounding the leadership change.
He acknowledged the contribution of his predecessor, saying Mr. Sechache had done his part during his time in office and that he would continue to approach him for guidance and advice when necessary.
Mr. Sefuthi described the transition as a learning opportunity and said he had asked God for wisdom as he began his new responsibility.
He encouraged Mr. Sechache to leave office with dignity, saying leadership changes should be handled with respect.
The new Mayor said he hoped the council would eventually reach a point where the country could hold the next local government elections expected in November, allowing citizens to exercise their democratic choice.
Mr. Sefuthi also extended an olive branch to councillors who did not support his election, calling for cooperation and unity in serving the people of Maseru.
“I am still the same Thabo you knew yesterday and the day before yesterday. I ask that you open your hearts so that I can approach you, because our only dream should be to see Lesotho moving forward,” he said.
He said leadership should not be driven by personal interests, stressing that the future of Lesotho rests on the shoulders of those entrusted with public responsibilities.
“The country does not need selfishness, it needs men and women who hold hands and work together,” Sefuthi said.
He urged councillors to put aside differences and focus on delivering services to residents, saying there was no time to waste as leaders must work towards ensuring that Lesotho develops.
The new Mayor and his deputy inherit the responsibility of restoring stability within the Maseru City Council and building confidence among residents following weeks of political uncertainty.
Ends/TS/tl
