Lesotho: Ruling Party Shuts Down PM’s Immunity Demands

The head of Lesotho’s ruling party has rejected embattled Prime Minister Thomas Thabane’s demands for immunity from prosecution in connection to the murder of Thabane’s former second wife.

In June 2017, Lipolelo Thabane – who divorced the politician in 2012 – was shot dead while driving to her home in Maseru.

The murder occurred two days before her ex-husband’s inauguration.

Along with his third wife, Maesaiah, the 80-year old prime minister – who promised to retire at the end of July – was recently charged with the killing. He then demanded immunity from prosecution so that he could retire with “dignity, grace and security”.

However, Lebohang Hlaele – the secretary general of the All Basotho Convention party – rejected endorsing Thabane’s demands, saying: “We are all equal before the law, and that would be setting a very bad precedent if [Thabane] were to be granted immunity.”

Hlaele added: “He should leave … we are left with the ‘how’ part. It is the only thing that we are left to grapple with.”

Ultimately, it will be up to Lesotho’s High Court to grant or deny Thabane’s immunity request.

Image Credit: Source