Maseru – Christian Advocates and Ambassadors have expressed discontent over Lesotho Flour Mills’ (LFM) decision to increase maize meal prices, effective from 6th May 2024. Advocate Fusi Sehapi, in a letter addressed to the Prime Minister of Lesotho, raised legal concerns regarding the price hike.
Sehapi’s letter questioned the legality of LFM’s decision, arguing that it violated democratic principles by not consulting the public or their representatives. He highlighted the legal maxim actus dei mini facit injuria, which states that an act of God does not cause harm, suggesting that LFM should not pass on the cost of late rainfall, which is beyond their control, to the public.
Additionally, Sehapi emphasized the constitutional right to food, which is interconnected with the right to life. He argued that any arbitrary increase in food prices threatens these fundamental rights.
The price increase by LFM was attributed to a 39% surge in raw white maize prices within two months, caused by adverse weather conditions. Despite hopes for stabilization following late-season rainfall, prices continued to rise, leading to the 15% increase in maize meal prices.
Sehapi’s letter urged the government to intervene and reconsider the price hike, warning of potential legal action in the High Court of Lesotho if the decision is not reversed.
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Have your say.
Do you think this case has the potential to enrich legal jurisprudence in Lesotho by clarifying the legal principles surrounding public consultation in decision-making processes that affect the public?
Advocate Sehapi’s argument that LFM’s decision violated democratic principles by not consulting the public or their representatives raises important questions about the extent of public participation required in such matters.
Do you think if this case is heard and a ruling is made, it could provide clarity on the legal obligations of entities making decisions that impact the public, potentially setting a precedent for future cases involving similar issues of public consultation and decision-making?
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