A Panel of Elders from the Southern African Development Community (SADC) met with His Majesty King Letsie III and the Prime Minister, Mr. Ntsokoane Matekane on Wednesday.
The delegation, which is led by the Former President of Tanzania and also the Chairman of the Panel of Elders, Dr Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete came to Lesotho with the aim to get information on the reform’s progress.

When briefing the media, Dr Mrisho Kikwete said the panel was established after SADC Facilitator to Lesotho, President Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa presented a report on the situation in Lesotho regarding the reforms process during SADC Summit that was held in Kinshasa on August 18, 2022.

Dr Kikwete said this is their first mission in Lesotho which is intended to find information about the comprehensive implementation of reforms report from Political Leaders, Civil Society organisations and everyone involved including His Majesty King Letsie III and the Prime Minister.

“We will meet with leaders to get a feel of where the country is on reforms and assist if the country might need anything from SADC,” he said.

On the other hand, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Relations Mr. Mpotjoane Lejone said the delegation came to ensure the government’s commitment to implementing reforms, adding that they will meet with all stakeholders like Political Leaders, Civil Society, the Speaker of National Assembly and President of Senate among others.

Lesotho’s journey of reforms started in 2018 with districts consultations with the diaspora and other several activities, from the First and Second Multi Stakeholders (FSMS) meetings where comprehensive reforms report covering seven areas being Constitution, security, economy, judiciary, public service, Parliament and media was presented to Deputy Chief Justice Dikgang Moseneke who is leader of the Mediation Team of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Facilitation to Lesotho.

The delegation will leave the country on Friday.
Source: LENA 08/O2/2023