Lesotho Begins Preparations to Consult Political Leaders on New IEC Appointments

Preparations are underway in Lesotho to consult political party leaders on the appointment of new members to the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC). This development marks a significant step in renewing the leadership of the key electoral body tasked with overseeing democratic processes in the country.

According to a savingram issued by the Office of the Clerk of the National Assembly, Advocate Fine Maemo, the move comes in response to a request from the Office of the Government Secretary (GS). The consultations aim to enable the Council of State to identify and recommend suitable candidates to King Letsie III for official appointment.

The communication makes clear that the consultative process will not be limited to parties currently represented in Parliament. It will also involve political leaders from parties outside the legislative chamber, ensuring broader political inclusion in the selection of IEC commissioners.

The process is rooted in legal provisions outlined in the Constitution of Lesotho. Specifically, Section 66 of the Constitution, as amended by the Fourth Amendment to the Constitution Act of 2001, provides the framework for appointing the Chairperson and two other IEC members.

This section mandates the Council of State to engage all registered political parties using a procedure that has been mutually agreed upon. The parties are expected to submit a joint list containing no fewer than five names within a 30-day period following the issuance of a formal notice. From this pool of nominees, the Council will then recommend individuals for appointment to the IEC.

This inclusive and constitutionally guided process aims to uphold transparency, foster trust among stakeholders, and strengthen the independence and credibility of the electoral commission. As preparations continue, all eyes will be on how the consultations unfold and who will be selected to lead the IEC into Lesotho’s next chapter of democratic governance.