Lesotho Tourism Development Corporation (LTDC) Chief Executive Officer, Molupe Pheko, has been placed on leave by the Board of Directors ahead of a disciplinary hearing over allegations of corruption and abuse of power.
Pheko faces multiple accusations, including the misuse of funds, unprocedural staff promotions, and creating a toxic work environment. Reports claim he promoted his alleged girlfriend to the role of personal assistant while sidelining a long-serving employee. He is also accused of forcing staff resignations and misallocating over M1 million earmarked for road repairs at Maletsunyane Falls.
The Directorate on Corruption and Economic Offences (DCEO) has launched an investigation into claims that Pheko diverted public funds for personal travel expenses, misused company vehicles despite a M30,000 monthly fuel allowance, and allegedly purchased alcohol with corporate funds.
While the LTDC’s Public Relations Officer denied reports of Pheko’s dismissal, board members confirmed that he was formally instructed to step aside on Tuesday. In his absence, Mamello Morojele, the LTDC’s Head of Investment Promotion, has taken over as acting CEO.
Pheko dismissed the allegations as a smear campaign against him, while the Board declined to comment further, citing ongoing investigations.
