As Prime Minister Sam Matekane’s coalition government marks three years in office since assuming power in October 2022, analysts have expressed mixed views on its performance. While the administration has been praised for progress in infrastructure development and electrification, critics point to shortcomings in unemployment reduction, food security, and merit-based appointments.
National University of Lesotho (NUL) Political Science lecturer Professor Motlamelle Kapa described the government’s performance as mixed. He noted that meritocracy, a term often highlighted by the administration, has not been effectively implemented. “Appointments to key offices have leaned more on politics than competency,” he said. He also criticized delays in implementing the broad-based national reforms programme and the government’s slow response to food security issues.
Dr Moeketsi Kali, also from NUL, described the Matekane government’s record as one that “breathes mixed emotions,” combining notable achievements with unfulfilled promises. He said that when the Revolution for Prosperity (RFP) assumed power, citizens expected integrity, efficiency, and delivery. While progress has been made, several pledges remain unmet. Governance expert Thuso Mosabala echoed this sentiment, stating that the government has achieved procedural reforms but limited structural transformation. He emphasized that real outcomes, such as job creation and improved service delivery, remain insufficient.
The RFP won 57 constituencies in the 2022 elections and formed a coalition with the Movement for Economic Change and Alliance of Democrats, later expanding to include several other parties. Despite internal tensions, including the dismissal of BAP leader Professor Nqosa Mahao as Minister of Energy, the coalition now enjoys a comfortable parliamentary majority. The government narrowly survived a motion of no confidence in October 2023, thanks to legal challenges and strategic support from coalition members.
Analysts say the government has broken some promises, particularly around reform implementation. Prof Kapa noted that the 10th Amendment to the Constitution, which could have addressed meritocracy, was delayed and poorly managed. Civic groups, such as Section 2, now challenge the amendment in court. While infrastructure and electrification have been strong points, food security and unemployment remain pressing issues. Progress in agriculture, through subsidies and support for farmers, has been notable, though Dr Kali highlighted instances of cronyism benefiting party supporters over vulnerable populations.
Initiatives such as the Competitiveness and Financial Inclusion Project and the Entrepreneurship Hub have supported start-ups and small businesses, with CAFI backing between 10 and 15 emerging enterprises. Youth programmes like the Sebabatso Apprenticeship Scheme have offered opportunities, though reports of fund misuse and lack of transparency have undermined credibility. Administrative delays in passports and citizenship processes persist despite improvements in ID issuance. Fiscal discipline, particularly early clearing of arrears, has been a positive measure.
Dr Kali criticized procurement irregularities, interference with the Director of Public Prosecutions, and controversial appointments as signs of weak anti-corruption enforcement. Governance expert Mosabala added that politicized appointments, limited transparency, and inconsistent accountability have hindered structural reforms. Economic stability has improved, but inclusive development and tangible benefits for citizens remain limited.
Dr Khosi Mahlakeng of NUL questioned the perceived stability of the government, arguing that its longevity relies heavily on military and police support. He cited the October 2023 no-confidence attempt and claimed interventions by security heads helped preserve the administration. Dr Mahlakeng also accused the government of capturing civil society and media structures to stifle dissent and criticized pre-election donations to security services as a strategy to consolidate power. Despite these concerns, he acknowledged genuine efforts by the government to address economic challenges, particularly through road infrastructure improvements, which remain vital for commerce.
Three years into office, the Matekane government has delivered measurable achievements in infrastructure, electrification, and agricultural support, but gaps in unemployment, food security, merit-based governance, and anti-corruption persist. Analysts stress that turning procedural reforms into tangible outcomes is critical for maintaining public trust and fulfilling the promises that brought the RFP to power.
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