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Dear Editor, 

We refer to the article by your Columnist entitled “Telecom Stumbles Again” in the 5^th – 11^th March 2004 issue. We are constrained to note that the hurling of insults does not add value to economic debate in Lesotho. In fact it reflects poorly on the column, and unfortunately on the quality of your esteemed journal. The Basotho public deserves enlightened debate in which there is clear analysis of the options facing the Government and the people of Lesotho given the objective realities in the economic arena.  

 One does  appreciate the annoyance caused by lack of response on the part of the utility to provide the required service on time, but the Lesotho Telecommunications Authority was established with the mandate to address issues such as the one mentioned in the column. The response from the Authority regarding lack of provision by the utility would have given the article a more balanced flavour. 

Nonetheless, while one does empathise with the customers, hoping that concerned service providers are taking note of the complaints regarding their services, we would like to stress that stating the complaint without using abusive language is still acceptable, and even more effective in putting one’s complaint across.  

Despite numerous attempts to clarify in the media the objectives of restructuring policy that has been adopted by the Government, it is evident that there is still opposition from some sections of the public. If your columnist does not believe that the privatization option presents the best solution perhaps he will come up with other ideas for public debate. 

Mothusi Mashologu

Director - Privatisation Unit