The American community living in Lesotho gathered at Lehakoe Club on Tuesday to honour the former leader of American Civil Rights Movement Dr Martin Luther King.

Speaking at the occasion, the Ambassador of United States to Lesotho Mr. Robert Nolan said Dr Martin Luther King was a great orator, a strong leader and a charismatic advocate for social justice.

He said Dr King's struggle to overcome racism, and inequality improved the lives of all Americans and many citizens of the world regardless of race, gender or economic background.

He showed that Dr King's life and ideas set an example for achieving social change without violence through compassion, conviction and hard work, adding that a country such as Lesotho needs individuals who will sacrifice and struggle for the future of their nation.

Mr. Nolan therefore urged Basotho to rededicate themselves to being the type of agents of change which Dr King advocated, and they should always remember that one person can make a difference and moreover every one can act like him.

Sharing same sentiments, the South African High Commissioner to Lesotho Mr. Happy Mahlangu said there is need for nations to consider Dr Martin Luther King as a hero as it is through struggle that freedom can be reached in different countries.

The occasion was honoured by presentation of awards to three students who wrote an essay about the Legacy of Dr Martin King.

The first award was given to 'Mamofola Mokhoane from Kingsgate High School, the second was given to Mots'oane Hea, also from Kingsgate and Tikiso Tseko from Senkoase High School.

Source: LENA 22/01/2008