On Tuesday, His Majesty King Letsie III led the laying of wreaths at the historic Thaba-Bosiu fortress in remembrance of the late Morena Moshoeshoe I, the founder of the Basotho nation. This solemn occasion marked a new chapter beyond the 200-year bicentennial milestone celebrated in 2024.
Thaba-Bosiu, regarded as the sacred resting place of King Moshoeshoe I, remains a significant symbol of Basotho heritage. Upon arrival, King Letsie III began the commemoration with a formal inspection of the 112-member Lesotho Defence Force (LDF) guard on parade. The troops stood in formation to render a royal salute before the wreath-laying ceremony commenced.
The Prime Minister, Mr. Ntsokoane Matekane, also participated in the tribute by laying a wreath in honor of the nation’s founding leader. Paramount Chiefs from various clans, including the Chiefs of Makhoakhoa, Bataung, and Batlokoa, followed suit, paying their respects to the revered monarch.
The ceremony began with a traditional Basotho prayer service (Thapelo ea Basotho), during which attendees solemnly faced north in a moment of collective reflection. The annual commemoration serves as a reminder of Moshoeshoe I’s enduring legacy and the unity he instilled in the Basotho nation.
