As the Lesotho elections approach next month, it’s a fitting time to explore the nation’s electoral history, process, and integrity of its system. Lebone Litho Printers is a specialised commercial printing company, committed to supporting and upholding democratic values across the African continent. In the age of digital information, where every step is scrutinised, understanding the nuances of a country’s electoral process becomes paramount.

In this article, we navigate through Lesotho’s democratic milestones and shed light on its rich electoral legacy.

The Evolution and Triumphs of Lesotho’s Electoral System

Lesotho, a landlocked kingdom nestled within the borders of South Africa, embarked on its democratic journey with its inaugural general election in 1970. Over the decades, Lesotho’s electoral process has seen both triumphs and challenges.

• 1970: The first general election, a landmark event that set the stage for subsequent electoral processes.
• 1985 to 2017: A series of general elections that witnessed shifts in political power, the emergence of new political entities, and the resilience of the Basotho people’s commitment to democracy.
• 2022: The Revolution for Prosperity (RFP) party, a political newcomer, won 56 seats in the House and was able to form a coalition government. The Democratic Congress party came second, and the All Basotho Convention came third, winning 40 seats less than in 2017. 

The Electoral Process: How Lesotho Votes

Lesotho’s democratic foundation is anchored in its Parliament, a two-chambered system designed to ensure comprehensive representation and maintain a balance of power.

National Assembly: The National Assembly is a dynamic body comprising 120 members. These individuals play a pivotal role in the nation’s legislative processes. 

Elected to serve a five-year term, they represent the diverse voices of the Basotho people. Notably, 80 of these members are directly elected from single-seat constituencies. The Mixed Member Proportional Representation system is employed, ensuring a harmonious blend of direct and proportional representation.

Senate: The Senate, on the other hand, is composed of 33 nominated members. These individuals are carefully chosen based on their expertise and their ability to represent various sectors of society. Their inclusion ensures that all facets of Lesotho’s diverse society are given a voice, contributing to a holistic legislative process.

The Integrity of Lesotho’s Electoral System

The 2022 general election in Lesotho was a testament to its robust democratic process. This shift showcased the system’s adaptability and responsiveness. Lesotho’s electoral integrity is maintained by various bodies, each pivotal at different stages of the election process.

• Voter Registration: Registers eligible citizens.
• Voting Process: Monitors fair vote casting.
• Vote Counting: Tally votes impartially.
• Declaration of Results: Transparently announces outcomes.

External evaluations conducted by organisations like the South African Development Community (SADC), African Union (AU), and the European Union (EU) vouch for the fairness of Lesotho’s elections. International observers, including representatives from the United Nations and regional bodies, ensure the process aligns with global democratic standards. In Lesotho, the system’s integrity guarantees that the political landscape accurately reflects the people’s will.

In 2022, voter turnout in Lesotho decreased to 38% from 47% recorded in 2017. As the nation anticipates another election, we at Lebone Litho Printers emphasise our pivotal role in the democratic process. Lebone Litho Printers, based in South Africa, has been instrumental in bolstering democracy throughout the SADC region. 

From creating compelling election posters to securely printing ballot papers, our expertise ensures that every vote counts and every voice is heard.

For nations and entities prioritising electoral integrity, collaboration with Lebone Litho Printers guarantees transparency and security. Engage with us to experience our commitment to democracy and specialised service offerings firsthand.