Lesotho PM To Resign, Cites "Old Age"

Embattled Prime Minister of Lesotho, Thomas Thabane, has restated his announced intention of retirement from office July ending "or earlier."

The PM who is accused of having a hand in the death of his estranged wife, Lipolelo Thabane, faces risk of being prosecuted, with pressure being mounted on the octogenarian to leave office.

Thabane whose term will end in 2022, has said that he intends to exit office at the end of July citing his age.

He said, “I wish to once again reaffirm my decision to retire as prime minister,” Thabane said in an address to the nation on Thursday, without setting a clear date for his resignation.

READ ALSO: Lesotho: PM's court Appearance Over Wife's Murder To Be Postponed

“I have always been consistent that it is my wish to retire from office by the 31st of July, 2020, or earlier… if all the necessary conditions for my retirement are put in place."

He added that his wish to step down was not forced but rather "voluntary," as he was “no longer as energetic.”

“The government and the political party that I lead will coordinate the process of my retirement,” he said.

“With a view to ensuring the continued stability of Lesotho (and) guaranteeing that our country is on a good course to reconciliation, unity and economic recovery from the Covid-19.”

Thabane is accused of killing his wife with whom he was divorcing two days before his inauguration into office. Lilopelo Thabane was said to have been shot and killed outside her home in the country's capital of Maseru.