Maseru, – The Speaker of National Assembly Mr Tlohang Sekhamane, says the House continues to face a number of challenges that affect its ability to function effectively, with absenteeism among Members of Parliament remaining one of the most serious concerns.

Mr Sekhamane made the remarks during the Leadership Forum and Accountability Summit on Friday.

He said one of the major challenges facing Parliament is the lack of full autonomy, noting that there are instances where the Executive and the courts attempt to influence Parliament's work.

He said Parliament should be allowed to make independent decisions in the best interests of Basotho.

"We want to reach a point where Parliament makes its own decisions as that will benefit the nation," he said.

Mr Sekhamane also expressed concern over Parliament's public image, saying the behaviour of some legislators has damaged the institution's reputation.

He highlighted the persistent absenteeism of Members of Parliament, describing it as a long-standing problem that continues to disrupt business of the House.

He said failure by members to attend sittings often results in the House failing to reach a quorum, delaying debates and other parliamentary proceedings.

Chief Whip, Mr Lethole Lethole, acknowledged that absenteeism has remained a challenge for many years.

He said it is difficult to determine the reasons behind every member's absence from Parliament, but stressed that measures are being introduced to address the problem.

Mr Lethole said Parliament is finalising a Code of Conduct that will hold Members of Parliament accountable for failing to report for duty.

He said the proposed code includes a "name and shame" provision, under which Parliament will publicly identify absent members and inform their respective constituencies about their conduct, allowing voters to assess whether they remain fit to hold office.

Meanwhile, Senator Seabata Motsamai said the Code of Conduct is currently before the Senate for consideration.

He said the process is nearing completion but expressed concern over whether the National Assembly would allow the legislation to proceed, as its provisions would affect all Members of Parliament once it comes into force.

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