An analysis of the nature and implications of military participation in politics in the Kingdom of Lesotho

Abstract

This study conceptualises the persistent challenges of military and political relations in Lesotho since independence. The research question, research objectives and research methodology are outlined. Methodologically, the study employs a qualitative approach through conducting desktop research using a number of data collecting tools. Of importance, thematic analysis assists in the interpretation on the implications of military participation in politics in the Kingdom of Lesotho. Thus, the research pivots on the relevant literature while seeking to review existing literature and discourse concerning the nature and the implications of military involvement in politics in Lesotho. The study’s scope is limited and focuses on a number of interrelated key issues in Lesotho since 1966 independence, namely, where should executive authority reside, party splits due to infighting and the role played by the RCC, politicised and polarised political and security establishments, electoral act as a result of outdated constitution as well as political and security instability caused by coalition governments that also resulted in the killing of LDF chiefs. The above is significant in that it assists in explaining Lesotho’s security sector as a trigger of instability in the country; prior, during and post-independence in the Kingdom of Lesotho before highlighting the implications thereof. Thus, the literature review on the responsibilities of the military in Lesotho serves as a chaperon and outline of the study as well as a source of secondary data. The above will assist policy makers including all stakeholders to acquire an acumen and conceptual understanding on governance in as far as the intersection between politics and military is concerned. Overall results and key findings of the study show that Lesotho’s legacy since independence has been the intersectionality of politics and military establishments. Thus, military involvement in politics, lack of institutional mechanisms as well as functional and professional military influence political systems. Lesotho’s politicians and political parties have since 1966 split and splintered often, that saw politicians, police, and the army forming alliances designed to keep certain people and parties in power. As a result, implications of these findings are; (1) non-existence of military professionalism; (2) absence of political will from politicians; (3) interference in politics by the army; (4) effect of delay for conducting Multi-Sectoral Reforms; and (6) continuous deterioration on Socio-Economic Development.

The study concludes that to curb Lesotho’s perennial political and security instability, there is a need to reduce military participation in the country’s politics. The above can be achieved by; (1) professionalising military, (2) conducting multi-sectoral reforms, (3) enhancing political socialisation/will, (4) improving political and military interdependence and (5) better socio-economic development.