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The Case of Lesotho’s Mixed Member Proportional System
Abstract
This article addresses the perennial problem of election-related confl ict in Lesotho and the innovative steps that were taken to arrest the problem in the
preparation of the 2002 poll, prominent among which has been the introduction of the Mixed Member Proportional (MMP) electoral system. Through this model, Lesotho enjoyed a large degree of political stability as almost all parties that contested the poll got representation in the national parliament. However, following the 2007 snap elections, the gains made so far seem to have dissipated; Africa’s fi rst MMP system has collapsed, and the potential for violent confl ict and political instability have been rekindled
preparation of the 2002 poll, prominent among which has been the introduction of the Mixed Member Proportional (MMP) electoral system. Through this model, Lesotho enjoyed a large degree of political stability as almost all parties that contested the poll got representation in the national parliament. However, following the 2007 snap elections, the gains made so far seem to have dissipated; Africa’s fi rst MMP system has collapsed, and the potential for violent confl ict and political instability have been rekindled
