Amnesty International has called on Lesotho authorities to urgently investigate the reported abduction and assault of journalist and human rights defender Kananelo Boloetse.
Boloetse was allegedly abducted from his home in Katlehong, Maseru, on 5 September 2026 by three unidentified men, according to Newsday Media.
Amnesty International’s Deputy Regional Director for East and Southern Africa, Vongai Chikwanda, said the reported incident raised serious concerns about the safety of journalists and human rights defenders in Lesotho.
“The reported abduction and brutal assault of Kananelo Boloetse is deeply alarming and raises serious concerns for the safety of journalists and human rights defenders in Lesotho,” Chikwanda said.
According to Newsday Media, Boloetse was interrogated about his journalism and human rights work before allegedly being assaulted and threatened with death.
He was reportedly later abandoned in Thaba-Bosiu, about 20 to 25km east of Maseru.
Newsday Media also reported that Boloetse’s home had been under surveillance before the alleged attack.
Chikwanda called on authorities to take immediate steps to ensure Boloetse’s safety and protect him from further threats, intimidation or reprisals.
“The Lesotho authorities must urgently take all necessary measures to guarantee Kananelo Boloetse’s safety and protect him from further threats, intimidation or reprisals,” she said.
She also urged authorities to conduct a prompt, thorough, independent and impartial investigation into the reported abduction, assault and threats against Boloetse’s life.
“Any suspect must be brought to justice in fair proceedings,” Chikwanda said.
Amnesty International said journalists and human rights defenders should be able to carry out their work freely and safely.
“Violence, threats or intimidation against those exercising their right to freedom of expression should never be tolerated and must not go unpunished,” Chikwanda said.
