An attempt to understand the attempted coup in Lesotho: Some initial musings

In a case where strange bed fellows have found themselves in an uncomfortable matrimonial bed of erstwhile foes, recent developments should come as no surprise. The following views are a modest distillation from media reports on the subject laced with personal views from yours truly resulting from some research on the subject of Lesotho and SADC.

On the morning of Saturday 30th August 2014, the world woke up to news of an alleged coup in Lesotho, this came as a shock to many and a disappointment to most since the country had recently made strides in democratic maturity. This followed its most peaceful 2012 elections which saw the formation on a ruling coalition between three opposition parties which was a first for the country and the region. For some time the ruling coalition seemed to be steering the country well until the other coalition partners started complaining about the Prime Minister, Thomas Thabane’s tendency of making decisions without consulting them. Historically Lesotho is no stranger to military take overs and political instability having experienced many such since its independence in 1966.