Ntsebeng Motsoeli
PARLIAMENT is set to re-open on 21 February 2020 almost three months after it was indefinitely adjourned on 29 November 2019.
Although no reason was given at the time of its adjournment, there was widespread speculation that it was closed to give Prime Minister Thomas Thabane time to deal with the infighting in his All Basotho Convention (ABC) which had resulted in a faction loyal to ABC deputy leader, Professor Nqosa Mahao, to file a no confidence motion against Dr Thabane.
When parliament re-opens on 21 February, Dr Thabane will not have to worry about the no confidence motion as it has been rendered redundant after the premier announced last month that he will soon be stepping down.
The re-opening of parliament was communicated by the Clerk to the National Assembly, Advocate Fine Maema, in a savingram to the Ministry of Communications on Thursday.
“I am directed to inform you that the Ninth Meeting of the First Session of the Tenth Parliament of the Kingdom of Lesotho will be held at the New Parliament Building, Maseru, on Friday 21 February, 2020, at 9am in terms of Standing Order No. 14 (2),” Adv Maema states in the savingram.
The 2020/2021 fiscal budget is expected to be one of the main issues on the agendas of parliament when it opens.
Dr Thabane’s retirement and the nomination of his successor could also feature on the agenda. ABC secretary general, Lebohang Hlaele recently told this publication that the party wanted Dr Thabane to retire ahead of the opening of parliament and his successor presented to the National Assembly when it opens.