Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Lesotho Times
Published on 2024-04-04 21:06:15
The government has agreed to pay the former Lesotho Highlands Water Commission (LHWC) chief delegate, Themba Sopeng, a hefty sum of M8.4 million for terminating his contract prematurely. This decision was reached as an out-of-court settlement after Mr. Sopeng challenged his dismissal. The M8,401,778.28 golden handshake was finalized last Thursday, putting an end to the legal dispute.
Mr. Sopeng had taken legal action against the government after his contract was terminated two weeks ago. He sought a review of the decision and compensation for the loss resulting from what he deemed as unlawful conduct on the part of the government. The Ministry of Natural Resources and the Attorney General were named as respondents in the case.
Initially appointed as the LHWC chief delegate for a 36-month period, Mr. Sopeng was informed by the advisor to the LHWA that the government intended to replace him. Negotiations ensued, but on 21 March 2024, Mr. Sopeng was informed that he had been replaced by Mafiroane Edmond Motanyane. Adv Motanyane, the former CEO of the National Reforms Authority, took over the position from Mr. Sopeng.
In response to his sudden dismissal, Mr. Sopeng contested the termination, arguing that the parties were still in negotiations to mutually end his contract. Despite no formal agreement being signed, the government proceeded with the replacement. The matter was brought before Justice Keketso Moahloli, where an agreement of amicable separation was reached. The M8.4 million settlement was endorsed by the court as an official order.
As per the settlement agreement, Mr. Sopeng will receive various payments totaling M8.4 million, including gratuities and salaries for the remaining months of his contract. The payments are subject to applicable taxes and are expected to be disbursed by 30 May 2024. Mr. Sopeng will also return the LHWC mobile phone and motor vehicle for the remaining period of his contract.
The mutual separation agreement between Mr. Sopeng and the government represents the final resolution of the dispute. Following the payment of all agreed-upon amounts, no further liabilities will arise from the termination of the contract. The settlement brings closure to the legal battle between Mr. Sopeng and the government over his premature dismissal from the LHWC.
Read the original article on Lesotho Times
