Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Lesotho Times
Published on 2024-04-11 11:29:20
Following the recent developments in Lesotho’s political landscape, there has been a significant shift in alliances as key members of the Alliance of Democrats (AD) have decided to join the ruling Revolution for Prosperity (RFP). This move has been marked by the departure of prominent AD figures, including former High Commissioner of Lesotho to the United Kingdom, Rethabile Marumo-Mokaeane, and former Permanent Representative of Lesotho to the United Nations Office in Geneva, Refiloe Litjobo.
The decision to leave the AD was confirmed through a joint statement issued by Litjobo and Marumo-Mokaeane, where they expressed their dissatisfaction with the direction the party was taking. Despite being instrumental in the formation of the AD, they felt that it no longer aligned with their vision for the country. This departure also signals a potential exodus of more members from the AD to the RFP in the near future.
The shift in allegiance has broader implications beyond just individual members. For instance, Monyane Moleleki, the founding leader of the AD, has indicated that he will now align himself with the government in Parliament. This move comes after Moleleki and other opposition lawmakers supported a no-confidence vote against Prime Minister Sam Matekane last year.
The reasons behind these defections are multifaceted. While internal conflicts within the AD have played a role in some members’ decisions to leave, others, like Marumo-Mokaeane, have cited the RFP’s strong policies and focus on economic development as driving factors for their switch. Marumo-Mokaeane believes that by joining forces with the RFP, they can better implement policies that will benefit the people of Lesotho.
This shift in political dynamics has roots in longstanding relationships and alliances. Litjobo and Marumo-Mokaeane have been associated with Moleleki’s camp since their days in the Lesotho Congress for Democracy (LCD) and the Democratic Congress (DC). Their support for Moleleki has been evident throughout various political transitions, including Moleleki’s departure from the DC to form the AD.
As more members prepare to join the RFP, the AD faces the prospect of losing more supporters in the coming days. The current political climate in Lesotho is characterized by changing allegiances and power dynamics, with key figures positioning themselves strategically for the future.
In conclusion, the recent defections from the AD to the RFP mark a significant shift in Lesotho’s political landscape. The decisions made by high-profile members like Litjobo and Marumo-Mokaeane reflect broader discontent within the AD and a desire for a new direction under the RFP’s leadership. As more members consider their allegiances, the political landscape in Lesotho is likely to witness further changes in the near future.
Read the original article on Lesotho Times
