2014 Lesotho political crisis

Tom Thabane, who was elected as prime minister in 2012.

Date	30 August 2014
Location	Lesotho
Result	Early election called Initial flight of prime minister and eventual return under southern African police protection Failed coup attempt

Belligerents

Lesotho Police
Government of Lesotho

Lesotho Army
Government of Lesotho

Commanders and leaders

Prime Minister Tom Thabane

Lieutenant General Kennedy Tlali Kamoli
Deputy Prime Minister Mothetjoa Metsing

Casualties and losses

1 policeman

On 30 August 2014, the Prime Minister of Lesotho, Tom Thabane, alleged a coup d'état had been launched against him. This followed a previous allegation that caused him to suspend parliament over possible extra-constitutional manoeuvres. It also followed pressure from South Africa to maintain the democratic process. The next day, the Deputy Prime Minister, Mothetjoa Metsing, assumed responsibility for running the government. As a result of South African-led SADC mediation, an early election was scheduled and held in February 2015, giving power to the opposition.

Following the general election of 2012, the All Basotho Convention's Tom Thabane was elected as prime minister as head of a three party coalition after ousting long serving Prime Minister Pakalitha Mosisili. On 19 June 2014, Thabane suspended parliament over fears of a coup d'état, allowing him to avoid a vote of confidence; this was sanctioned by King Letsie III. In reaction, South Africa issued a statement that read it "notes with concern the unfolding political and security situation in the Kingdom of Lesotho which has resulted in the prorogation of the country's parliament. The South African government has further noted with grave concern the unusual movements of the Lesotho Defence Force Units in the capital, Maseru. South Africa will not tolerate any unconstitutional change of government in the region and continent." Deputy Prime Minister Mothetjoa Metsing also suggested he would form a new government upon Thabane's removal. Meanwhile, in addition to South Africa, the Southern African Development Community also warned the political rivals of unconstitutional changes of government which would not be tolerated.

...
Wikipedia