Maseru – The Leader of the Basotho National Party (BNP), Hon. Machesetsa Mofomobe, has written to the United States Ambassador in Maseru warning that Lesotho’s continued access to the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) is at risk due to deteriorating governance standards.
In a strongly worded letter dated 29 September 2025, Mofomobe urged the U.S. to take note of what he described as “critical and crucial” concerns that threaten not only Lesotho’s economic stability but also the livelihoods of tens of thousands of Basotho families employed in the textile and apparel industries.
AGOA, which provides duty-free access for African exports into U.S. markets, has been central to Lesotho’s economy for two decades. Its benefits, however, are tied to compliance with democratic governance, human rights, and transparency.
Governance Failures Highlighted
Mofomobe’s letter outlines several alleged failures by government:
• Suppression of peaceful assembly: Citizens’ rights to demonstrate have reportedly been restricted, undermining democratic participation.
• Harassment of journalists: The recent detention of a Lesotho Times journalist is cited as an attack on press freedom and the public’s right to information.
• Corruption and conflicts of interest: Mofomobe points to reports of ministers engaged...
