Lesotho experienced a significant escalation in opposition protests

In August 1998, Lesotho experienced a significant escalation in opposition protests, which culminated in a large demonstration outside the royal palace. The situation became increasingly volatile when South African National Defence Force (SANDF) troops raised the South African flag over the palace, an act that incited further unrest among the local population. The protests were a response to political tensions and dissatisfaction with the ruling government. As the protests intensified, clashes between demonstrators and SANDF troops erupted, leading to widespread violence. The Southern African Development Community (SADC) intervened in an attempt to stabilize the situation. However, by the time SADC forces withdrew in May 1999, the capital city of Maseru was left in ruins, with significant destruction reported. Additionally, the southern provincial towns of Mafeteng and Mohale's Hoek suffered severe economic impacts, losing over a third of their commercial real estate. The events of 1998-1999 marked a tumultuous period in Lesotho's history, highlighting the fragility of its political landscape and the consequences of external military involvement in domestic affairs. #mooflife #mof #MomentOfLife #Lesotho #SadcIntervention #OppositionProtests #Maseru #SouthAfricanNationalDefenceForce