Human Lives Human Rights: Recent revelations by the Lesotho Ombudsman have shed light on concerning violations of human rights, including torture, excessive force, and withholding medical care, against detainees at the Maseru Correctional Institution. Human rights advocates have expressed dismay at the findings, emphasizing a pervasive culture of impunity within the institution, where both junior and senior officers are implicated in the abuses.
In response, calls have been made for a thorough, independent investigation into the reported acts of torture and mistreatment. It is urged that those responsible be brought to justice through fair trials, while victims must be granted access to justice and appropriate remedies.
The Minister of Law and Justice, along with the Commissioner of Correctional Services, are urged to ensure accountability by holding perpetrators accountable and undertaking meaningful reforms within the correctional system. Immediate steps must be taken to safeguard detainees from further abuse, including the implementation of recommendations from the Ombudsman’s office.
The incidents stem from a December 2023 episode where detainees were subjected to violent beatings during a routine search operation, leading to visible injuries. Despite efforts by relatives to seek justice, concerns remain regarding the imposition of corporal punishment and restrictions on visitation rights.
The Ombudsman’s report, released in March 2024, underscores the need for urgent action to address systemic human rights violations within the Maseru Correctional Institution.
