The Independent Electoral Commission has reinstated four deregistered political parties under High Court order and confirmed a new Chief Accounting Officer, as the electoral body moves to shore up both its legal compliance and its financial governance ahead of the 2026/27 financial year.
The Independent Electoral Commission has complied with a High Court order requiring it to return four previously deregistered political parties to the official register, IEC Chairman Reverend Dr John Maphephe confirmed this week. The court issued the order on 1 June 2026, and the Commission received it on 4 June.
The parties reinstated are the Basutoland Democratic Congress, the Bahlabani Ba Tokoloho Movement, the Basotho Democratic National Party, and the Lesotho Economic Freedom Fighters.
“The Commission remains bound by decisions of the courts and is committed to upholding the rule of law.”
IEC Chairman Rev. Dr John Maphephe
While maintaining that the original deregistration had been carried out in accordance with its interpretation of the applicable legal framework and constitutional mandate, the Commission said it remains bound by the decisions of the courts. It added that it is studying the judgments and consulting legal advisers to determine whether any additional legal or administrative measures may be required.
The IEC said it would continue carrying out its constitutional responsibilities impartially, professionally and without favour, and reassured political parties and stakeholders accordingly.
New accounting officer appointed
In a separate development, the Commission welcomed the designation of Lydia Macheli, Acting Director of Elections, as Chief Accounting Officer for the 2026/27 financial year. The appointment was made by the Minister of Finance and Development Planning under Section 4(g) of the Public Financial Management and Accountability Act of 2011.
As Chief Accounting Officer, Macheli will be responsible for overseeing the management of public resources allocated to the Commission and ensuring compliance with financial, procurement and accountability requirements. The IEC described the appointment as an important step towards strengthening governance, financial accountability and operational stability within the institution.
The Commission said the appointment is guided by the Constitution of Lesotho, the Public Financial Management and Accountability Act, the Public Service Act and the Public Procurement Act, all of which provide the legal framework for responsible management of public funds.
The IEC also reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and prudent financial management, saying it is strengthening internal budget planning and monitoring through the establishment of a Budget Committee. The committee is intended to align resources with strategic priorities, improve performance monitoring and ensure value for money in the delivery of electoral services.
The Commission thanked the Government of Lesotho and stakeholders for their continued support, and said it remains stable, fully operational and focused on fulfilling its constitutional mandate of managing democratic electoral processes in the country.
By Tholoana Lesenya | Lesotho Tribune
