Coup in Lesotho

Lesotho Prime Minister Thomas Thabane was forced to flee the country on Aug. 30 after fire was exchanged between the armed forces and police outside two police stations in the capital, Maseru. One police officer died and four were wounded. Reports from the nation indicate that the military is loyal to Deputy Prime Minister Mothetjoa Metsing, while police support Mr. Thabane. 

Mr. Thabane returned to Lesotho on Sept. 3 after talks between the two factions in South Africa generated a timetable for restoration of the parliament. As part of the agreement, elections will be held in 2015, two years earlier than scheduled. Lesotho police have returned to normal duties, but command and control of the army remains unresolved. 

The US Department of State urges deferring travel to Lesotho due to continued concerns about security.