Amnesty International urges Lesotho’s new government to swiftly tackle human rights issues exacerbated by political and security crises. With documented abuses since 2014, reforms are necessary to ensure justice and accountability, particularly for the victims of past violations. The organization’s agenda includes ending arbitrary arrests, torture, and protecting freedom of expression.
Amnesty International urges Lesotho’s newly elected government to promptly address past human rights violations and curtail the recent uptick in abuses. The nation has faced significant political and security challenges over the last few years, leading to a discernible increase in these violations.
Deprose Muchena, Amnesty International’s Regional Director for Southern Africa, remarked on the critical situation stating, “For the past few years, Lesotho has been characterized by a political and security crisis, resulting in a spike in human rights violations.” Since 2014, human rights abuses including arbitrary arrests and detentions of opposition members, journalists, and defenders have been documented.
Muchena emphasized the need for transformation: “The authorities must demonstrate a clear break from the past and urgently initiate a programme of human rights reform, including accountability and justice for the victims of human rights violations and abuses.” The new government is called upon to halt arbitrary arrests, politically motivated prosecutions, and end torture practices.
Moreover, the organization stresses the importance of ensuring justice for victims of rights violations, including the targeted killing of Lieutenant-General Maaparankoe Mahao. Amnesty International also demands that the government respect freedom of expression and adhere to its international human rights obligations.
In summary, Amnesty International calls on Lesotho’s newly elected government to take immediate action against human rights violations. By breaking from past injustices and initiating necessary reforms, the government could foster accountability, justice, and stability in the region. The organization’s agenda outlines critical steps for achieving these objectives as the country transitions under new leadership.
Original Source: www.amnesty.org
