BASOTHO URGED TO WEAR NATIONAL FLAG ON SUNDAY

The call was made at a press conference held in Maseru on Friday ahead of the Diamond Jubilee celebrations, which will take place on October 4, 2026.

Addressing the media, Home Affairs Principal Secretary Mrs ‘Mabataung Khalane said the national flag colours were chosen to promote uniformity and ensure that all Basotho could participate in the celebrations.

She clarified that there was no special seshoeshoe fabric prescribed for the occasion, but encouraged Basotho to wear the national blanket where appropriate.

“We know Lesotho is a democratic country, but for this special event, we urge women to wear dresses and look dignified for this special and, of course, national event,” she said.

Mrs Khalane also said the celebrations would be attended by dignitaries from countries including Eswatini, Thailand, Nigeria, Angola and South Africa.

She further announced that festivities would be held on Saturday evening as part of the build-up to Independence Day. The celebrations will start at 8pm at the Maseru Main Traffic Circle and proceed towards Makoanyane Square, where statues of different Paramount Chiefs are located.

She said the programme for Independence Day would include the presence of the Head of State and other official engagements, while Basotho artists from different parts of the country would entertain the public and perform special independence songs.

Also speaking at the press conference, Cabinet Principal Secretary Mr Thabo Moleko said the government would work to ensure that the 60th anniversary left a lasting legacy beyond the celebrations.

Maseru District Administrator Mr Paul Lewake said the government would provide free transport across the districts to facilitate the movement of Basotho wishing to attend the celebrations at Setsoto Stadium.

Lesotho gained independence from Britain on October 4, 1966, becoming an independent constitutional monarchy. The country marks Independence Day annually on October 4, with this year’s celebrations commemorating 60 years of independence.

The 2026 celebrations, being held under the Diamond Jubilee milestone, bring together national, cultural and official activities to mark the country’s six decades of independence.