Lesotho: Urgent Action Required to Address Human Rights Violations

Lesotho’s newly elected government faces urgent calls from Amnesty International to address human rights violations and establish accountability. Deprose Muchena highlighted a concerning pattern of arbitrary detentions and urged for substantial reforms, including an end to abuses and protection of freedoms. The human rights agenda is crucial for the incoming administration to adhere to its commitments and foster justice.

Amnesty International has called upon Lesotho’s new government to promptly address the issue of accountability for human rights violations and to mitigate the recent surge in abuses. The organization highlighted the troubling political and security crises that have plagued Lesotho, prompting an escalation of such violations in recent years.

Deprose Muchena, the Director for Southern Africa at Amnesty International, expressed concern over the pattern of arbitrary arrests and detentions since 2014, particularly affecting opposition members, journalists, and human rights defenders. He emphasized the urgent need for the authorities to distinctly move away from detrimental past practices.

In light of the recent changes in government following the elections on 3 June 2017, Amnesty International released a human rights agenda emphasizing essential reforms. It calls on the new administration led by Prime Minister Thomas Thabane to terminate arbitrary arrests, prosecute politically motivated cases, and ensure justice for victims of human rights violations, such as the case of Lieutenant-General Maaparankoe Mahao.

The organization further urges the government to protect freedom of expression and adhere to both international and regional human rights commitments. These measures are vital for restoring trust in governance and upholding human rights within the nation.

In summary, Amnesty International advocates for significant human rights reforms in Lesotho following recent elections. The organization stresses that accountability, an end to arbitrary arrests, and the protection of fundamental freedoms are crucial for the new government to create a just society. Immediate action is necessary to break the cycle of impunity and restore confidence in the country’s leadership.

Original Source: www.amnesty.org