LHDA PUTS THE RECORD STRAIGHT ON SNOWFALL REMOVAL

Reference is made to Public Eye article that appeared in the Vol. 10 No. 32 of August 11 - 17 2006 under the heading "Stakeholders assess impact of snowfall".

Mr. Ts'eliso Nthane of Nthane Brothers is quoted on page three, paragraph seven of this article as saying they (local business community) " ...had vested interest in making conditions return to normality"." Because we have stronger muscles, we thought it reasonable to lend a hand," he said.

The facts of the matter are that:

• Nthane Brothers was duly requested by the Lesotho Highlands Development authority (LHDA) to quote on the snowfall removal;

• Whilst the quotes submitted were too high, LHDA could not source alternative contractors as their equipment was not available. Consequently Nthane Brothers  were given a go-ahead despite the unacceptable quote, as lives of communities and motorists along the road to Mohale were in danger;

• The supervision of the snow clearing process was LHDA's responsibility;

• At the end of the snow clearing process Nthane Brothers submitted their invoice for payment to the LHDA in the sum of M128,677.50.

• LHDA is in the process of paying this invoice in its entirety.

From the above, it is obvious that the credit and publicity that Nthane Brothers are quoted as claiming are misplaced.

Yours Sincerely,

Masilo Phakoe (Mr.)

Acting Chief Executive

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