Lesotho 

Introduction

The Kingdom of Lesotho is a constitutional monarchy located in Southern Africa. It is landlocked and completely surrounded by the Republic of South Africa. Its area is 30, 335 sq km with a population of 2,022,331.

Lesotho is divided into 10 administrative districts: Berea, Butha Buthe, Leribe, Mafeteng, Maseru, Mohale’s Hoek, Mokhotlong, Qacha’s Nek, Quthing and Thaba-Tseka. The capital is Maseru, where parliament is based.

There are 128 community councils, 10 district councils and one municipal council being Maseru City. Community. Municipal councillors were elected at the elections held on the 30th April 2005. 

Summary

On 30 April 2005, the first local government elections were held since Lesotho gained independence in 1966. The Lesotho experience of local government has been one of episodic attempts to create a new system to replace the highly centralised structures that prevailed since independence in 1966. These attempts have been hindered by a variety of factors, many of which are related to the wider political system. Financial conditions and the traditional system of local governance have also tended to present challenges. The present government has made a solid start and remains committed to reform. 

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