Maseru __ The Lesotho Electricity Company (LEC) is facing a wave of public criticism and growing pressure as concerns mount over rising electricity tariffs, alleged financial mismanagement, and questionable executive benefits.

What began as isolated complaints has now evolved into a national call for accountability. A broad coalition of Basotho citizens, united beyond political or religious lines, is planning a large-scale demonstration on June 18.

The protest is aimed at urging Prime Minister Samuel Matekane to intervene directly in what organizers describe as a deepening crisis within the country’s power utility.

Leading the initiative is Mr. Baphuthi Mokone, who says the group is demanding urgent answers and reform. “We're fed up with the unexplained increase in electricity tariffs, especially given our struggling economy,” Mokone stated. “At the same time, those at the helm of LEC enjoy lavish salaries and perks, while ordinary citizens are left to bear the brunt.”

He noted that for years the LEC has justified its rising prices, but recent findings by the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) suggest a different story, one of serious mismanagement and potential corruption.

The committee revealed that the company failed to account for over M500 million, opting instead to seek legal protection from the High Court to shield staff from further questioning.

Among the recent developments, Advocate Mary Bosiu, a member of the LEC board, resigned last week. She alleged that a Member of Parliament from the ruling Revolutionary for Prosperity (RFP) had threatened to have her removed if she persisted in pushing for an audit by Lesotho’s Auditor General.

Bosiu argued that a domestic audit would be more transparent and cost-effective than hiring foreign firms, especially given LEC’s financial troubles.

Tensions appear to be escalating. Organizers of the upcoming demonstration reported being followed by unknown individuals in a black Toyota Prado after leaving a local radio station on Thursday night. While the incident remains unconfirmed, it has added to growing fears over the safety of whistleblowers and activists.

As the June 18 protest approaches, demonstrators are calling not only for reduced electricity tariffs, but also for greater oversight, accountability, and possible legal action against those implicated in financial misconduct.

Should their demands be ignored, organizers say they are prepared to pursue the matter through the courts.

The eyes of the nation are firmly on LEC, and the pressure is building.