Lesotho Correctional Service Promotions Not Politically Motivated, Says HR Officer

In a recent session before the Commission of Inquiry investigating the escape of inmates from Lesotho Correctional Service (LCS), Human Resource Officer Mrs. Itumeleng Makhetha addressed concerns regarding the promotion of officers within the service. This response comes in light of allegations from several witnesses suggesting that promotions are influenced by party politics rather than merit.

Mrs. Makhetha asserted that promotional positions, particularly those ranging from Assistant Superintendent to Deputy Commissioner, are not politically motivated. She explained that these positions are publicly advertised and subjected to a rigorous selection process, which includes analysis by senior officers, the Principal Secretary, and the Minister of Law and Justice. “I have never seen anyone skipping ranks since 2021,” she stated, emphasizing the transparency of the promotion process.

According to Mrs. Makhetha, after the advertisement, candidates are shortlisted, and interviews are conducted by a panel that comprises representatives from the Public Service, the Ministry of Law, and LCS senior officers. The HR officer noted that she meticulously takes minutes of these interviews, reinforcing her belief that the appointment process is transparent and based on merit.

While acknowledging that many Commissioners have transitioned in and out of the office since her tenure began, she expressed uncertainty about whether these changes were politically motivated, citing the possibility that new governments might appoint new LCS Commissioners.

However, Mrs. Makhetha clarified that promotions within the lower ranks are the prerogative of the LCS Commissioner, as outlined in the LCS Act of 2016. She pointed out that the HR Office does not play a role in these lower rank promotions, which are communicated to them after decisions are made. “We are just told certain people have been promoted through the Commissioners’ Office,” she explained.

The lack of a formal policy or framework governing promotions, particularly in lower ranks, further complicates the situation. As it currently stands, the power to promote officers in these ranks rests solely with the Commissioner, leading to concerns about the potential for favoritism or political influence.

Several officers who previously testified before the Commission have voiced their concerns about the alleged political motivations behind new appointments and promotions. They argue that this has created divisions and bitterness among officers within the LCS, undermining morale and cohesion.

The Commission of Inquiry, which began its work in May, was established to investigate the circumstances surrounding the escape of inmates. Its objectives include evaluating the security measures within the LCS and examining the actions taken by staff during the escape and subsequent search operations.

As the inquiry progresses, the focus remains on ensuring that the processes within the LCS are not only transparent but also free from political interference, thereby fostering an environment of trust and integrity within the correctional service.