Former tourism minister Motlohi Maliehe, who was fired by Prime Minister Thomas Thabane in August last year after relations with his leader were severed, was on Thursday October 3, among three new ministers sworn in.
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Oct. 3, 2019
STAFF REPORTER
2 min read
Maliehe bounces back
The reshuffle that came a day before the kingdom’s 53rd independence is the fourth since the 4-party coalition resumed office in June 2017. Three new cabinet ministers plus two deputy ministers have been sworn in by Acting Chief Justice 'Maseforo Mahase in the presence of King Letsie III, Prime Minister Dr. Motsoahae Thabane and his Deputy Prime Minister Dr. Monyane Moleleki at the Royal Palace.
First to be sworn in was new Minister of Trade and Industry, Mr. Halebonoe Sets'abi who was the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Relations and is replacing the former Minister Habofanoe Lehana who is now the new Minister of Law and Constitutional Affairs. Mr. Motlohi Maliehe has now resurfaced as the new Minister of Social Development replacing the former Minister 'Matebatso Doti who was booted out in February this year.
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New Minister of Police and Public Safety is Mr. Lehlohonolo Moramotse who was also booted out in February last year while he was the then Minister of Public Works and Transport. The two Deputy Ministers are Mr. Kose Makoa who has taken the position of Deputy Minister of Gender and Youth, Sports and Recreation while Mr. Moshe Leoma is the new Deputy Minister of Public Works and Transport replacing Mr. Mokherane Tsatsanyane who is now going to be Deputy Minister of Local Government and Chieftainship.
In a brief interview with Mr Maliehe, he expressed his honour and gratitude saying it is a wonderful gesture, especially since he did not expect it. He said the ministry he was now heading is very challenging compared to all ministries but said he was up to the task. Commenting on his appointment after vocally speaking ill of the Prime Minister and his wife in some local media, Mr. Maliehe adamantly indicated that he will always speak the truth if need be regardless of whom it hurts.
In the meantime, the Government Secretary Mr. Moahloli Mphaka has hinted that other reshuffles will be announced in due course.
Metro/LeNa
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