In Lesotho’s October 2022 general elections, the new Revolution for Prosperity (RFP) party swiftly gained prominence, securing 56 out of 120 parliamentary seats. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Sam Matekane, the RFP formed a coalition with three other parties to secure a ruling majority. The elections were largely considered free and fair.
Lesotho’s economic performance remained weak due to the COVID-19 pandemic and prolonged lockdowns. In 2021, GDP declined by 9.4%, but by 2022, there was a modest 2.6% recovery, particularly in mining, manufacturing and business services. Despite this growth, the pandemic caused job losses, exacerbating Lesotho’s challenges of low human development, widespread poverty and significant inequality.
Prime Minister Matekane plans to move the country to a competitive, export-driven economy led by a strong private sector. The reforms target bolstering institutions and promoting transparency and accountability in the public sector. However, the implementation of the second five-year National Strategic Development Plan (NSDP II) 2018–2023 faces challenges due to poor coordination and lack of financial support.
