As an integral part of the mediation efforts of the disputed allocation of Lesotho Parliament’s proportional representation (PR) seats, UNDP supported the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) in organising a two-day event in which all parties (ruling party as well as the opposition parties) came together to discuss how to best manage intra-party and inter-party conflict in Lesotho.

This open forum facilitated by the Electoral Institute of Southern Africa (EISA) allowed for a honest discussion on conflict management at various levels. It brought out the critical role of a culture of political tolerance and constructive engagement on various national issues, both during and in-between elections, as this will guarantee inter-party dialogue where misunderstanding prevails. The event also acknowledged the challenges within political parties and the damage this may cause to the party itself as well as the democratic process in the country. Discussions were held on party structures, election of leadership and the importance of ensuring a democratic process governing the party activities which at the end of the day also serves as a role-model for democracy in the country.

This open discussion was particularly important for Lesotho as one of the major challenges to nurture and consolidate democratic governance in the country has revolved around intra-party and inter-party conflicts.