FORMER HEALTH MINISTER, RETIRED COLONEL MATELA LAID TO REST

Hailed by many as a man of knowledge and integrity, Colonel Matela served Lesotho with distinction in both the security and public service sectors.

Conveying his message of condolence, His Majesty King Letsie III described the late Colonel Matela as a committed and disciplined servant of the nation who dedicated his life to the wellbeing and development of Basotho.

His Majesty said that Colonel Matela was a man devoted to his work and responsibilities, noting that his contributions to the country’s security and governance would remain part of Lesotho’s history. He further expressed sympathy to the bereaved family and urged them to find comfort in the legacy left behind by their loved one.

On behalf of the Government of Lesotho, Deputy Prime Minister Justice Nthomeng Majara paid tribute to the deceased saying his life was characterized by patriotism, professionalism and selfless service.

Justice Majara noted that Colonel Matela served the nation during critical periods of its history, including his appointment as Minister of Health during the military administration in 1992.

She said that his experience, wisdom and leadership continued to benefit the country even after his retirement from public office.

She further highlighted his role in constitutional reforms and his contributions within the justice and private security sectors, describing him as a leader whose counsel was valued by many.

According to the family, Colonel Matela passed away on June 29 following a cardiovascular-related illness. He was 93 years old.

Born on December 25, 1932, at Qholaqhoe in Botha-Bothe, Colonel Matela joined the Lesotho Mounted Police Force in 1961 and later obtained a Diploma in Law from the University of Botswana, Lesotho and Swaziland.

Throughout his career, he attended several professional courses locally and internationally and rose to the rank of Colonel.

Following his retirement from the police service, he served as Minister of Health before later working in the private security sector and as an assessor in the Labour Court of Lesotho.

Colonel Matela is survived by five children, grandchildren and one great-grandchild.