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The chapter reports on the linguistic variations by minorities in Lesotho’s political landscape. Lesotho is largely dominated by Sesotho language. Thus, the aim of the study was to ascertain the participation of minority language speakers, using language as a reflection of such participation on WhatsApp groups. The study applies a qualitative content analysis on hyperlocal content generated on WhatsApp groups, backed by ethnographic observations and interviews with WhatsApp groups administrators. Findings of the study reveal community discourses and broader participation by minorities at local grassroots level. Using alternative media theory, we argue that WhatsApp groups serve as hyperlocal environments where minority languages are used interchangeably with Sesotho. The study shows that minority language speakers such as SiPhuthi and isiZulu enjoy linguistic autonomy through WhatsApp spaces as an alternative media for minority language visibility in political communication.

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Hyperlocal Content and Linguistic Interface: Reflections on Minority Political Participation in Lesotho

  • 章节

  • 发表日期：

    2026年

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  • Mongali Mofana,
  • Sekoai Elliot Nkhi,
  • Hlompho Letsie,
  • Tsepiso Mncina

摘要

The chapter reports on the linguistic variations by minorities in Lesotho’s political landscape. Lesotho is largely dominated by Sesotho language. Thus, the aim of the study was to ascertain the participation of minority language speakers, using language as a reflection of such participation on WhatsApp groups. The study applies a qualitative content analysis on hyperlocal content generated on WhatsApp groups, backed by ethnographic observations and interviews with WhatsApp groups administrators. Findings of the study reveal community discourses and broader participation by minorities at local grassroots level. Using alternative media theory, we argue that WhatsApp groups serve as hyperlocal environments where minority languages are used interchangeably with Sesotho. The study shows that minority language speakers such as SiPhuthi and isiZulu enjoy linguistic autonomy through WhatsApp spaces as an alternative media for minority language visibility in political communication.