The Lesotho government has announced plans to send a high-level delegation to South Africa to address growing concerns over the treatment of Basotho nationals, including alleged xenophobic incidents and denial of healthcare services.
The decision follows a cabinet meeting where Communications Minister Nthati Moorosi expressed deep concern over reports that Basotho living or visiting South Africa are being unfairly targeted. Moorosi highlighted instances where Lesotho citizens were denied medical assistance and randomly arrested, despite holding valid visas.
“Xenophobic-Like” Actions Condemned
Moorosi stated that while these actions may not reflect official South African government policy, they create an unsettling environment for Basotho.
“If you give a Lesotho citizen a visa to be in South Africa lawfully, that means they should access health services. Otherwise, what are we doing? Are we relegating them to death?” she questioned during a media briefing.
She suggested that some of the hostility may stem from xenophobic attitudes among South African citizens rather than state-sanctioned measures. However, she urged the South African government to intervene and halt such treatment immediately.
Allegations of Arbitrary Arrests and Military Camps
The minister also raised alarms over Basotho being detained by South African officials despite possessing valid legal documents. More controversially, she referenced unverified reports of military training camps in South Africa but deferred further comment, stating that the matter should be handled by security agencies from both nations.
“If South Africa says there are no camps, but [others] say there are, I leave it to security officials to resolve,” Moorosi said, citing circulating mobile phone clips as part of the basis for these claims.
Diplomatic Engagement Underway
The Lesotho government is now preparing to dispatch a delegation to South Africa to seek clarity on visa conditions and address the broader issues affecting Basotho. The move underscores escalating tensions over immigration and cross-border welfare between the two neighboring nations.
South Africa has yet to formally respond to the allegations. Observers warn that unresolved grievances could strain diplomatic relations, particularly as Basotho make up a significant portion of migrants in South Africa, many of whom work in key sectors.