The challenges of local government in Lesotho: constraints and prospects

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Periodical article

Title:	The challenges of local government in Lesotho: constraints and prospects
Authors:	Likoti, F.J. Shava, P.V.
Year:	2006
Periodical:	Lesotho Law Journal: A Journal of Law and Development
Volume:	16
Issue:	2
Pages:	329-349
Language:	English
Geographic term:	Lesotho
Subjects:	local government government policy
Abstract:	The local government elections for the 128 Community Councils held in Lesotho in April 2005 were pronounced free and fair. The present paper shows that, despite this endorsement by international observers, one year down the line, the electoral outcomes have produced more challenges than the expected results. Decentralization of services appears to be far from making an impact on the ground. This stems from the fact that the Ministry of Local Government seems reluctant to provide the required leadership, amend legislation, provide resources both human and infrastructural and sensitize stakeholders about their respective roles. These challenges have defeated the ambitious Lesotho Local Development Programme Concept Paper, which spells out what has to transpire in order to achieve development-oriented local authorities in Lesotho. In conclusion, the paper provides recommendations about what can be done to ameliorate the situation. The paper is based on data collected from local government offices in 2005-2006. Notes, ref., sum. [Journal abstract]