05/05/2026
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Leadership is Stewardship, Not Power
By Dr. Clifford Molefe
As the clock ticks down to one of the most anticipated governance gatherings in Lesotho, the message becomes clearer and more urgent: leadership is not about power—it is about stewardship.
With only two days remaining before the convening of Khotla 2026, to be held from May 7 to 8, 2026, at the Manthabiseng Convention Center, the national conversation has shifted from theory to action. This is not merely another conference. It is a defining moment in Lesotho’s journey toward ethical leadership and accountable governance.
Leadership is often misunderstood as being synonymous with authority, control, and dominance. In many institutions—whether public, private, or even within sports structures—leadership is too frequently associated with command rather than service. Yet, true leadership demands something far more profound: the responsibility to serve, to protect, and to act in the best interests of others.
In governance, leaders are not owners of institutions—they are custodians. They hold positions of trust on behalf of the people, stakeholders, and future generations. Their role is not to accumulate power, but to exercise it with restraint, wisdom, and accountability.
This philosophy is deeply rooted in African thought, particularly in the teachings of Mohlomi, the revered Basotho philosopher. Mohlomi’s leadership ideals were grounded in humility, ethical conduct, and service to humanity. He taught that a leader earns legitimacy not through force or status, but through moral authority and the ability to uplift others.
The Mohlomi Code, championed by the Institute of Directors of Lesotho, draws from this rich philosophical foundation. It is not merely a governance framework—it is a moral compass. It calls upon leaders to act with integrity, to remain accountable, and to prioritize sustainability over short-term gain.
As Lesotho prepares to host Khotla 2026, the significance of this message cannot be overstated. The conference is expected to bring together government Ministers, Chief Executive Officers, senior government officials, and a wide range of stakeholders committed to advancing good governance in the country. It represents a convergence of minds and sectors, united by a common purpose: to strengthen leadership and governance practices in Lesotho.
Importantly, the conference will also feature presenters who are renowned leaders from diverse leadership spheres across Lesotho and South Africa. This cross-border exchange of knowledge and experience is expected to enrich the dialogue, offering comparative insights and practical lessons that can elevate governance standards within the region.
Of particular note is the presence of the Honourable Lejone Mpotjoane, Minister of Energy and Mining, who will serve as the Keynote Speaker at this historic and memorable event. His address is expected to set the tone for critical discussions around leadership, accountability, and national development.
The choice of the khotla as both symbol and inspiration for this conference is deliberate and powerful. Traditionally, the khotla was a space where voices were heard, leaders were held accountable, and decisions were made in the interest of the community. It embodied transparency, participation, and collective responsibility—principles that modern governance continues to strive for.
Today, as Lesotho stands on the threshold of Khotla 2026, there is a renewed call to return to these foundational values. The challenges facing institutions—ranging from inefficiency to lack of accountability—cannot be addressed through policy alone. They require a transformation in mindset.
Leadership must evolve from being power-centered to service-driven.
The Institute of Directors of Lesotho has consistently emphasized that governance is not simply about structures and compliance. It is about culture. Without ethical leadership, even the most sophisticated governance frameworks will fail.
This is why Khotla 2026 matters.
It is more than a gathering—it is a call to reflection, a platform for dialogue, and an opportunity for renewal. It challenges leaders across all sectors, including sports, business, and government, to rethink their roles and responsibilities.
As we approach this landmark event, one truth stands out: governance begins with leadership, and leadership begins with character.
If Lesotho is to build strong, transparent, and accountable institutions, it must be led by individuals who understand that leadership is not a privilege to be enjoyed but a duty to be fulfilled.
They must recognize that they are not masters of power—but stewards of trust.
And in that realization lies the future of good governance in Lesotho.
