MINISTRY OF DEFENCE
Government of Lesotho established the Ministry of Defence and National Security (MODNS) in August 1994 to reflect the notion of civil control of the Military and Security Service. The role of the Ministry is to formulate, adopt and execute defence and security policies. The Ministry has the responsibility to inform the nation about defence and security, at the same time strike a balance between the publics right to know and confidentiality in the interest of national security. Transparency is an essential ingredient of good governance.
The civil-military and civil-security relationships are governed by the four control Principles of Separation of Powers, Legality, Accountability, and Transparency. The powers and functions of the Lesotho Defence Force (LDF) and National Security Service (NSS) are determined by law as specified in the Constitution, the Lesotho Defence Force Act of 1996 and the National Security Act of 1998. All concerned players are expected to operate strictly within these parameters. The Public needs special assurance that the armed forces and security services perform their functions in accordance with the law. Such assurance is provided through the political authority exercised by the MODNS. The Minister is answerable to the Parliament and Public.
LDF COMMAND
LIEUTENANT GENERAL
EXAVERY MOJALEFA LETSOELA (CDS)
MAJOR GENERAL
RAMANKA MOKALOBA
MAJOR GENERAL
'MATUMELO FRANCISCA RAMOQŌPŌ (CHR & ADMIN)Our Mission
To uphold the notion of civilian control over the military and maintain peace and security in the Kingdom of Lesotho through development and implementation of security policies which ensure separation of power, legality, accountability, transparency and availability of resources.
To defend the country and provide for the security of Lesotho, participate in external security cooperation activities, and contribute in domestic support operations with the aim of:
- Protecting the Constitution of Lesotho, and to guarantee the Rule of Law.
- Ensuring national security and stability.
- Defending Lesotho's territorial integrity on land and in the air.
- Preserving Lesotho as a free, independent and sovereign State.
- Protecting the people and their properties.
- Aiding civil authorities in domestic support operations.
- Strengthening Lesotho's international relations by participating in Regional and International Security Cooperation activities.
Our Vision
To be a professional, reliable and committed organisation with capacity and capability to defend and protect Lesotho's sovereignty and national security interest.