Africa-Press – Lesotho. With the tenure of the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) Commissioners drawing to a close, The Community and Media Liaison Officer, Mrs. Marafaele Mohloboli has issued a reflective statement, praising the commission’s achievements under their stewardship.
The trio, Chairperson Mphasa Mokhochane, Dr. Karabo Mokobocho and Mr. Tšoeu Petlane, are scheduled to vacate their roles on December 12, following election of new members into their posts.
Highlighted key milestones, Mrs. Mohloboli stated that for years IEC paid more than M800,000 per month in rent, celebrating the fact that the commission now owns its buildings, a landmark shift that promises to redirect funds into core electoral functions.
She mentioned the court victory on Political Party Compliance, stating that IEC won a significant legal battle against political parties that had resisted adhering to electoral laws. She said the ruling is validation that IEC does have principled leadership capable of enforcing the legal framework governing party conduct.
She also pointed out the issue of Voters’ List Purification, saying it is one of the more symbolic achievements and the completion of a long-overdue purification of the voters’ register, a process that, she said, the IEC has struggled with for over 20 years. This, she argued, strengthens electoral integrity and public confidence.
The Commissioners’ reappointment has been controversial. Several political parties have opposed renewing their contracts without an open selection process, arguing for adherence to constitutional requirements.
Indeed, a coalition of at least five political parties has filed a constitutional court case challenging the fitness of the IEC commissioners to remain in office.
The High Court has reserved judgment in that case, leaving the future leadership of the IEC in legal uncertainty.
As the IEC stands at a crossroads, with its senior leadership potentially making way, the Director of Elections, Advocate Mphaiphele Maqutu’s remarks frame the outgoing commissioners’ term as one of notable institutional progress.
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