Amnesty International has called on Lesotho’s new government to combat rising human rights violations amid ongoing political and security crises. As Prime Minister Thomas Thabane prepares for office, the organization stresses the need for immediate accountability measures and reforms to protect civil rights and meet international obligations.
Amnesty International has urged Lesotho’s newly elected government to take decisive action against growing human rights abuses. In recent years, political unrest has led to a notable increase in violations, which the organization highlights in its newly released human rights agenda ahead of Prime Minister Thomas Thabane’s inauguration on June 16.
Since 2014, Lesotho has faced a persistent political and security crisis, marked by arbitrary arrests and detentions targeting opposition party members, journalists, human rights activists, and even Lesotho Defence Force personnel. “For the past few years, Lesotho has been characterized by a political and security crisis, resulting in a spike in human rights violations,” stated Deprose Muchena, Amnesty International’s Regional Director for Southern Africa.
Amnesty International emphasizes the importance of the new government distancing itself from past injustices. The organization calls for immediate reforms in human rights practices, seeking accountability and justice for victims. “The authorities must demonstrate a clear break from the past and urgently initiate a programme of human rights reform, including accountability and justice for the victims of human rights violations and abuses,” emphasized Muchena.
The organization outlines key actions that the new administration must undertake: cease arbitrary arrests and politically motivated prosecutions, eliminate torture and ill-treatment practices, ensure justice for victims, safeguard the right to freedom of expression, and comply with international human rights standards.
Lesotho held new elections on June 3, 2017, following the previous Prime Minister Pakalitha Mosisili’s loss of a vote of no confidence. A coalition of four political parties— the All Basotho Convention (ABC), the Alliance of Democrats (AD), the Basotho National Party (BNP), and the Reformed Congress of Lesotho (RCL)—formed a ruling government, securing 63 parliamentary seats together.
Amnesty International’s call for reform comes at a crucial time for Lesotho’s new government as it steps into power. By addressing past violations and ensuring accountability, the government can demonstrate its commitment to human rights. The outlined recommendations, if acted upon, could lead to significant improvements in the country’s human rights landscape. Immediate attention to these matters will help establish a foundation of justice and respect for fundamental rights in Lesotho.
Original Source: www.amnesty.org
