MAINTAIN PEACE & STABILITY – PM URGES 249 LDF RECRUITS
	Maseru, June 08 - The Prime Minister and the Minister of Defence and Security Mr. Pakalitha Mosisili has called upon all soldiers to maintain peace and stability in the country. Speaking during a passing out parade for 249 Lesotho Defence Force (LDF) recruits who were elevated to the rank of Privates at Ratjomose Barracks on Thursday, Mr. Mosisili said peace and stability and the rule of law are pillars of good governance in every country and without them, no development can be achieved. He urged the new army members to respect the country's constitution, the military law as well as to follow instructions and obey their superiors. Mr. Mosisili urged the graduates to avoid being influenced by party politics but be the army which supports the democratically elected regime, and reminded them that they should be ready to serve at regional, continental and even international peacekeeping forces when the need arises, since Lesotho is a member of international organisations like United Nations. Speaking of HIV/AIDS, Mr. Mosisili warned new army members against the pandemic, urging them to either abstain, be faithful to their partners, or condomise to prevent infection. He told them that the country is expecting a lot from them to contribute to its economic growth, adding their work is very hard and needs healthy people. The LDF Commander, Lieutenant General Thuso Motanyane told the graduates that they enter the military service when there are many challenges lying ahead that include prevention of the high rate of cross border crime and ensuring safety of the old aged pensions. He urged them to respect their work and protect themselves against HIV/AIDS pandemic saying the military needs healthy soldiers. There were 251 recruits who resumed military training in October last year but two of them could not finish due to illnesses. They were trained among others on military tactics, skill at arms, the role of the military in the democratic set-up, Rules and Regulations that govern LDF, map reading, behaviour as well as good health regarding the HIV/AIDS pandemic. Meanwhile, five of the trainees were presented with awards by the Prime Minister for their outstanding performances throughout the training on various military fields. Present at the function include some cabinet ministers, diplomatic corps, government officials, LDF high ranking officers, parents of the trainees and the public.
	Source: LENA