Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Lesotho Times
Published on 2024-04-11 12:54:49
The All Basotho Convention (ABC) is currently embroiled in internal power struggles just days before its scheduled weekend elective conference. The conflict escalated when longtime members Moahloli Mphaka and Kefeletsoe Mojela were declared ineligible to contest for the deputy party leader position by the ABC national executive committee (NEC). In response, Mr. Mphaka and Ms. Mojela have taken the matter to the High Court, filing an urgent application to challenge the NEC’s decision.
The three-day elective conference was initially planned for March 31, 2024, but was postponed due to the Easter break. Mr. Mphaka expressed his disagreement with the disqualification, deeming it discriminatory and unconstitutional. The primary reason cited by the ABC secretary-general, Lebohang Hlaele, was that neither candidate had served in any party structures, a prerequisite for contesting NEC posts according to the ABC constitution.
Despite not having served in lower party structures, Mr. Mphaka, a former Government Secretary, is determined to fight the disqualification and attend the conference. He emphasized the importance of unity and cleaning up leadership within the ABC if he were to win the deputy leader position.
The NEC has endorsed other candidates for the deputy leader post, including former secretary-general Samonyane Ntsekele. With his vast political experience, Mr. Ntsekele aims to help address the party’s challenges and prevent past disputes from recurring. He stressed the importance of using the party’s constitution to guide decision-making and bring peace and stability to the ABC.
The power struggles within the ABC are further complicated by historical divisions within the party, especially following the fallout between former leader Thomas Thabane and former deputy-leader Nqosa Mahao. Mr. Mphaka’s court challenge reflects a broader struggle for control and direction within the party.
The outcome of the court case and the upcoming conference will have significant implications for the future of the ABC. The party’s ability to navigate these internal conflicts and unify behind a common vision will determine its success in upcoming elections and its ability to regain public trust and confidence.
Read the original article on Lesotho Times
