Mr. Pakalitha Mosisili took the Oath of Allegiance and of Office as Prime Minister of Lesotho at a ceremony held at the Royal Palace in Maseru on Friday, February 23.

In his speech, after being sworn-in as the new Prime Minister of Lesotho, in the presence of, among others, King Letsie III and High Court Judges, Mr. Mosisili thanked Basotho for the most peaceful and responsible manner in which they conducted themselves during the electoral process.

Prime Minister Mosisili, whose Lesotho Congress for Democracy won the 17 February, 2007 general elections, invited all politicians to unite and work together for the benefit of Lesotho and her people.

He said it is his hope that the present electoral model, which Lesotho entered into in 2002, is and will continue to be pivotal to peace and stability, for Lesotho and the rest of the continent, as it enables even small parties to have representation in Parliament.

“It cannot be over-emphasized that peace and stability are fundamental ingredients for sustainable economic development and prosperity," he added.

The Prime Minister noted that, peace and stability would have to be demonstrated in the National Assembly so as to deal with issues and fight challenges facing Lesotho.

He further noted that, voters have given Lesotho a government and by the same token have given an opposition adding that the next government should be truly the King's government, and the opposition be the King's loyal opposition.

The Prime Minister expressed gratitude to the heads of churches for instilling the spirit of tolerance among politicians.

He forwarded special thanks to the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) for performing their duties and ensuring that the elections are held transparently.

To the Security institutions, Mr. Mosisili acknowledged the fact that, they carried out their duties in good conduct and with professional approach.

And to the international and local NGOs, the Prime Minister expressed gratitude to their contributions that include among others, trainings, finances and voter’s education.

The event was attended by among others, members elected to the National Assembly and government officials while the Lesotho Congress for Democracy supporters were singing their political songs and slogans in admiration of their leader as Prime Minister of Lesotho outside the Royal Palace premises.

Source: LENA