THE KINGDOM OF LESOTHO COMBINED SECOND TO EIGHTH PERIODIC REPORT UNDER THE AFRICAN CHARTER ON HUMAN AND PEOPLES’ RIGHTS AND INITIAL REPORT UNDER THE PROTOCOL TO THE AFRICAN CHARTER ON THE RIGHTS OF WOMEN IN AFRICA 243. The first coalition government which was formed in 2012 was a three-party coalition government composed of the All Basotho Convention (ABC), Lesotho Congress for Democracy (LCD) and Basotho National Party (BNP). However, due to political instability which led to SADC intervention and mediation, the coalition government collapsed and snap elections were called in January 2015. 244. Following the 2015 elections, a seven party coalition government was formed. Once again Lesotho had political instability, the army commander, Lieutenant General Mahao was assassinated. This death together with two others once again led to SADC intervention. SADC established a commission of enquiry which recommended security, public sector and judicial reforms. 245. In 2016 members of the National Assembly passed a vote of no confidence in the Prime Minister for amongst others failing to implement the SADC reforms mentioned above. Acting in accordance with the Constitution the Prime Minister advised His Majesty the King to dissolve parliament. Hence the 2017 snap elections, which yielded the third coalition government, composed of four political parties. 246. Despite the political instability which has been caused by different factors, the mixed member proportional model has worked well to ensure the right to self-determination in Lesotho as it addresses equitable parliamentary representation among the political parties. The process has improved inter-party dialogue, encouraged inclusiveness and broader representation in the National Assembly. Judicial measures 247. The Constitution of Lesotho does not only provide for the right to political participation and self-determination but also contains the right for candidates and voters to challenge election results as illustrated in table A8 above. Challenges 93

Select target paragraph3