JOHANNESBURG, Oct. 5– South African President Cyril Ramaphosa on Friday marked Lesotho’s 58th anniversary of independence, highlighting its shared history, geography, culture and language with South Africa. Ramaphosa applauded in a speech the role Lesotho played during apartheid, noting that the mountain kingdom became a refuge for freedom fighters fleeing South Africa. “I stand here today, representing my government and the people of South Africa, deeply aware of the heroic sacrifices Basotho (Lesotho nationals) made in support of the struggle against apartheid.” Ramaphosa highlighted the strong bonds and ties of friendship between South Africa and Lesotho, acknowledging Lesotho’s unwavering support during the apartheid era. He noted that even when apartheid forces crossed into Lesotho to perpetrate violence, its commitment to South Africa’s liberation remained unshakeable. “We mourn the many Basotho who lost their lives alongside those of their South African sisters and brothers,” he said. Lesotho became a sovereign state in 1966 following years of British colonialism.
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