Justice Molefi Makara is set to deliver his judgment on Tuesday in a case that seeks to determine whether the High Court has locus standi in a disciplinary matter involving the Basotho Action Party (BAP) and its former Deputy Leader, Mr. Motlatsi Maqelepo.
The case stems from a dispute between Maqelepo and the party’s Central Executive Committee (CEC). Maqelepo filed a case in the High Court in an attempt to bar the CEC from taking disciplinary action against him, following accusations of what the party termed “rebellious behavior” towards the CEC and the Party Leader. In response, the BAP questioned the court’s jurisdiction to interfere in internal party matters, arguing that the disciplinary process is an issue best handled within the party’s structures.
In his court filing, Maqelepo accused the CEC of unfair treatment and claimed that the disciplinary measures against him were politically motivated. He argued that the court should intervene to ensure justice and protect his rights as a party member. However, the BAP maintains that the judiciary should not interfere in what they see as internal party affairs, asserting that Maqelepo’s actions violated party principles and governance.
The case has drawn significant attention, as it raises questions about the extent to which courts can intervene in internal political disputes. Legal experts suggest that Justice Makara’s judgment could set an important precedent for how political party matters are handled in Lesotho.
The outcome of this case could have far-reaching implications for both Maqelepo and the Basotho Action Party. If the court rules in favor of Maqelepo, it may limit the ability of political parties to manage their internal affairs without external interference. Conversely, a decision in favor of the party would reinforce the autonomy of political organizations in handling their disciplinary processes.
All eyes are now on Justice Makara as he prepares to deliver a verdict that could reshape the dynamics between political parties and the judiciary in Lesotho. The judgment is anticipated to provide clarity on the balance between party governance and the rights of individual members within political organizations.
