Coup Scare: Lesotho's PM Runs, Deputy Takes Over
31 August 2014 By Abi Giwa
Lesotho's Prime Minister, Thomas Thabane, fled his country on Saturday to South Africa to avoid death from marauding soldiers, whom he said ran around the streets, threatened people and said they wanted him. He says he would return to the country if he is sure he would not be killed.
However, one report by the VOA said that the country's deputy prime minister, Mothetjoa Metsing has taken control of government in the prime minister's absence. Although the fleeing PM accused a former military commander of leading the unrest, military officials said there was no coup, but an effort to silent police elements arming a political faction.
Reports confirmed that sounds of gunfire boomed in Maseru, Lesotho's capital, on Saturday. And eye witnesses said that soldiers were seen occupying government buildings and the prime minister's residence.
However, one report by the VOA said that the country's deputy prime minister, Mothetjoa Metsing has taken control of government in the prime minister's absence. Although the fleeing PM accused a former military commander of leading the unrest, military officials said there was no coup, but an effort to silent police elements arming a political faction.
Reports confirmed that sounds of gunfire boomed in Maseru, Lesotho's capital, on Saturday. And eye witnesses said that soldiers were seen occupying government buildings and the prime minister's residence.
