PLOT TO OUST THABANE; LESOTHO TIMES MARCH 13-19 2014 Members of Parliament are reportedly finalising a grand coalition to oust Prime Minister Thomas Thabane through a no- confidence vote, the Lesotho times heard this week. According to sources who spoke to the Lesotho times on condition of anonymity, the alliance comprises all the DC MPs and some disgruntled ABC and LCD legislators. The MFP, PFD, NIP, BDNP, LWP, BCP and BBDP are also said to be part of the plot which has reportedly gathered momentum over the past few weeks. According to sources, the MPs want Thabane removed for his alleged failure to maintain stability in the armed forces, arbitrary sacking of ministers, failure to deliver on his election promises and dissatisfaction over powers given to a team known as the “resource group”, which reportedly controls ministries under the ABC. Sources said one of the meetings strategising the coalition was held at the residence of DC Secretary General Ralechate ‘Mokose. ‘Mokose ,however, yesterday said the meeting was a social gathering of people exchanging ideas about national issues. “I know that in a democratic setting, the law allows people to talk, especially when you see there are threats to national security. So we actually met with some legislators to exchange views over the security threats and how we can advise government”, ‘Mokose said. ‘Mokose denied any knowledge of the grand coalition or any plot to pass a no-confidence on the coalition government comprising the LCD, ABC and BNP let by Thabane. “I don’t know anything about any proposed coalition. I don’t know anything. Meeting to discuss national issues does not necessarily mean people end up forming coalition. “We as DC have pronounced that we are an official opposition. That is why we initiated for opposition parties to assist government towards bringing stability to the country. But I don’t see why it should be mistaken for coalition-formation exercise”, he said. Asked whether the formation of a new Coalition would be in the DC’s favour,’ Mokose said, “I rather leave that to your imagination”. Mokose stressed that the MPs have a right to convene and talk about national issues which should, however, not be mistaken for a plot against government. But according to our sources, the intention is to make sure the new coalition secures a majority in the national assembly first and then lobby support within the council of state to continue with government rather than dissolve parliament. “The ultimate plan is to submit a motion of no-confidence in Thabane and propose a new name for a Prime Minister, “the source said, adding however, an alternative Prime Minister had not yet been identified. The Sources continued; “The plan is also to have council of state override the Prime Minister’s advice to the king and advice the monarch, instead, not to dissolve parliament in the event that the no-confidence motion succeeds against Thabane and he calls for the dissolution of parliament.
Posted on: Thu, 13 Mar 2014 11:32:04 +0000
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