The Acting Principal Chief of Makhoakhoa Chief Tumane Matela was sworn-in as Member of Senate by the House Clerk, Mr. Makhabane Maluke on Thursday.

The swearing-in follows the death of his father the Principal Chief of Makhoakhoa Chief Thaabe Matela earlier this year.

Speaking at the ceremony, the President of Senate, Chief Letapata Makhaola urged the new senator to perform his duties in accordance with the constitution of Lesotho together with the Chieftainship Act of 1968.

He urged the new Senator to perform his duties in accordance with the Constitution of Lesotho and chieftainship Act of 1968 to rule the public as expected.

Also speaking, the Principal Chief of Koeneng and Mapoteng Chieftainess 'Mantoetse Lesaoana Peete advised Chief Matela to request God’s guidance in his daily work.

She urged him to lead his community with dedication, respect and love, as he will work with different groups of the society that include among others orphaned and vulnerable children, the sick and criminals.

She advised him to be guided by the principles of his family, as his father was a strong character with an independent state of mind that helped him to make own decisions.

Speaking at the occasion, Lieutenant General Makhula Mosakeng, said he is impressed by the fact that the house is being blessed by a young and energetic person, who will be able to perform his duties effectively.

The Principal Chief of Thaba-Bosiu, Chief Khoabane Theko expressed need for establishment of a College of chiefs to train them on chieftainship affairs and laws of the country as they are appointed at 21 years which he said it is a young age.

Chief Tumane Thaabe Matela is the second son of the late Chief Thaabe Matela. He is married and holds a Diploma in Information and Technology.

Source: LENA 10/04/2008