Lesotho: LGBTQI advocacy gains ground in Lesotho

The article examines growing LGBTQI+ advocacy in Lesotho, focusing on the role of the People’s Matrix Association in national governance and legal reform processes. Led by founder and executive director Tampose Mothopeng, the organisation has secured representation in key multi-stakeholder platforms linked to constitutional, security and justice reforms, ensuring that sexual and gender minority experiences are included in national dialogues for the first time. 

The story highlights the organisation’s involvement in reviewing Legal Aid Guidelines, contributing to the Lesotho Justice Needs Survey, and advising on government reform programmes. Through these roles, the People’s Matrix promotes inclusive data collection, access to justice and the alignment of national laws with constitutional and human rights commitments, including those adopted through Lesotho’s engagement with the Universal Periodic Review process in April 2025. 

The article also outlines risks to recent gains, particularly the legal challenge to the Tenth Amendment to the Constitution Act, which introduced a new anti-discrimination clause. While the court case centres on procedural issues, its outcome could affect protections relevant to LGBTQI+ people. The story underscores why sustained civic participation and evidence-based advocacy matter for safeguarding inclusion and democratic reform in Lesotho. 

LINK TO PUBLISHED STORY

https://newsdayonline.co.ls/lgbtqi-advocacy-gains-ground-in-lesotho/ 

This article, first published by MISALesotho, is part of the Media Parity Capacity Building and republished as part of the programme series.