Former Minister of Police Lepota Sekola Honoured at Official Funeral Service

The late former Minister of Police, Mr. Lepota Sekola, was honoured with an official funeral service at Khutsong, Lesotho Defence Force (LDF) on Friday. The service drew national leaders, family members, and community representatives, paying tribute to his contributions to public service and national security.

Delivering condolences on behalf of the King, Principal Chief of Matsieng, Bereng Seeiso, reflected on the spiritual dimension of death. He described it as the only route to connect with God, urging the Sekola family and relatives to seek understanding during this fragile period. He also highlighted the coincidence of the former Minister’s passing with that of his younger brother, adding to the family’s grief.

Chief Seeiso emphasized the circumstances surrounding Sekola’s death, reportedly linked to depression and stroke after he stopped taking hypertension medication. He used the occasion to stress the importance of men seeking regular medical care to prevent unnecessary deaths, noting a common reluctance among men to engage with health services.

Prime Minister Ntsokoane Matekane shared personal reflections, recalling his acquaintance with Sekola during his time as a businessman under the previous regime. He praised Sekola as a supportive individual with a genuine desire to help others. Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly, Ts’epang Ts’ita-Mosena, also paid tribute, noting that leadership does not exempt one from personal struggles and urging citizens to monitor their health. She acknowledged Sekola’s tenure as a Member of Parliament for Makhaleng Constituency, highlighting his dedication to acquiring knowledge and serving his community.

The funeral service began with a prayer from the LDF Chaplaincy. Mr. Keketso Sekola, a family member, shared that Lepota Sekola’s death followed complications from depression and stroke after discontinuing his hypertension medication, as advised by doctors.

Born on 28 September 1964 at Makhalaneng, Liphakoeng, Sekola was the second child of the late Mr. Mirrod and Mrs. ‘Mafako Sekola. He attended Seroeng Primary School and St. John Tlali Secondary School before joining the Lesotho Defence Force in 1983. During his military career, he served in multiple departments including H Coy, Workshop, Transport, and VIP Protection Battalion. He rose through the ranks from Private to Corporal and Sergeant before taking early retirement in September 2003.

Sekola’s life reflected dedication to national service, both in the military and in government, and his passing serves as a reminder of the importance of health awareness and the personal sacrifices of public servants.