A critical analysis of the recurrence of coups in the Kingdom of Lesotho – 1970-2014

M.A.Abstract: Since its independence, the Kingdom of Lesotho has experienced the recurrence of coups (1970-2014). A process of re-democratisation was attempted in the country in 1993 but another coup succeeded the elections. The next elections in 1998 were marked by the worst political violence in the history of Lesotho. Electoral reforms were then introduced in 2002. Still, the reforms did not prevent the coup attempt in 2014. Understanding the factors causing these coups, and other related problems of political instability, is important for solving Lesotho’s general social and economic challenges. This study attempts to provide an explanation for recurrent coups in Lesotho by critically assessing the sociopolitical factors that nurture this practice; and examines particular patterns of events that could present the likelihood of the occurrence of these coups. By using a historical analysis of the trajectory of these coups, the study endeavours to identify the triggers of the coups and relate these to national political developments. The study makes use of a qualitative research design, and uses mostly secondary sources of data. The results are analysed via content analysis to identify the trigger similarities and differences, and correlations among the coups