Lesotho Radio Presenter Ralikonelo Joki Shot and Killed
Media Tragedy in Lesotho: Radio Broadcaster Ralikonelo Joki Murdered
In a shocking turn of events, popular radio presenter Ralikonelo Joki has been tragically shot and killed, sending shockwaves throughout the media community in Lesotho. The details surrounding Joki’s killing are still unclear, but there is a consensus that it was a targeted attack related to his work.
Authorities have yet to make a public statement regarding the incident. Tsénolo FM station manager, Mshengu Shabalala, revealed that Joki was murdered on Sunday night shortly after finishing his current affairs program, “Hlokoana La Tsela” (I heard it from the grapevine), which airs daily from 6 to 9 pm. As Joki was leaving the premises of Tsénolo FM after his show, he was shot and killed.
Shabalala explained that due to the radio station’s proximity to the main road, Joki had to wait momentarily for other cars to pass before joining the road. It was during this brief pause that the assailants ambushed him. One of them shot him from the passenger’s side, while the other fired from the driver’s side. Joki lost control of his car and veered off the road, colliding with the wall of Thamae Shopping Centre. The attackers, relentless in their pursuit, continued to shoot at him until members of the Lesotho Defence Force (LDF) arrived at the scene and pronounced him dead.
Joki, affectionately known as Qhashi or Leqhashasha (a devil-may-care), was renowned for his passion for investigative journalism and uncovering corruption within the public service. His colleague, ‘Marafaele Mohloboli, who often collaborated with him on various investigative stories, described him as fearless and unwavering in his pursuit of truth. Despite facing threats and intimidation, Joki remained undeterred, earning both enemies and accusations of unprofessionalism from his detractors.
Mrs. Mohloboli expressed deep concern over the lack of security measures for media practitioners in Lesotho, emphasizing that media houses should prioritize the safety of journalists. She strongly condemned the killing of journalists for merely performing their duties. Mrs. Mohloboli stressed the importance of society recognizing and valuing the role of the media, urging people to feel obligated to protect media practitioners.
Furthermore, she criticized media owners for entering into alliances with influential individuals who dictate the agenda of media organizations. This places journalists at significant risk if they attempt to expose those empowered to set the narrative.
It is worth noting that radio stations in Lesotho are often affiliated with different political parties in the country. Joki leaves behind his son, daughter, and his pregnant wife, who is currently expecting their child.
