On December 9^th, the eve of the internationally celebrated Human Rights Day, UNDP hosted a seminar to debate the issue of political tolerance in Lesotho. With the national elections period due to get underway in the New Year, the subject was particularly relevant and timely for discussion. UNDP Resident Representative Ahunna Eziakonwa-Onochie opened the debate by inviting participants to leave behind the textbook definitions of political tolerance and rather reflect on issues of concern within the Lesotho context.

Representatives of political parties, Government ministries, civil society, youth and media were all present as Minister of Justice; Hon. M. Mahase Moiloa reminded participants that the Christmas period was “a time of serenity, peace and love” and that it is important to address the issue of political tolerance. The minister drew on the homogenous nature of Basotho society and the strong family ties amongst Basotho as a good foundation for building a politically tolerant and stable democracy.

Facilitated by Mr. H. Nyane of the Transformation Resource Centre (TRC), selected panelists initiated the debate by engaging participants on a range of issues surrounding political intolerance. Electoral Commissioner, Dr. F Likoti, highlighted the interconnections between the IEC’s election preparations and political tolerance while Mr. T. Matsasa of the Media Institute of Southern Africa (MISA) and Ms. T. Ramakotjo of the Lesotho Youth Federation related the perspectives of the Media and Youth respectively. The seminar was consolidated by debate discussant, Mr. P. Bereng, who placed the theme of political tolerance within the context of Basotho history and culture.

The diversity of debate was highlighted when Mr. A Kapa of the National University of Lesotho presented the findings of a UNDP sponsored study on the country’s proliferation of political parties. Participants contested the study’s conclusion that the proliferation of political parties and factions was an indicator of political intolerance and proposed that Lesotho’s political party culture was part of a vibrant democracy.

At the closing of the debate, the opportunity to engage with such politically critical issues through a public forum was appreciated by participants. Further, the importance of maintaining such a forum into the future was expressed.  By providing a platform for Basotho to address issues of national interest, the continuation of such public debates would serve to enhance public participation in Lesotho’s democracy.

Patrice Lucid, Elections & Parliamentary Affairs Officer, UNDP Lesotho