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Justin Lekhanya
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Justin Lekhanya

Mosotho military officer
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Justin Lekhanya was a Mosotho military officer who played a significant role in Lesotho's political history. In January 1986, he led a military coup that overthrew Chief Jonathan and established military rule, with the king serving as head of state. Lekhanya's government banned open political activity and deported South African refugees, which led to South Africa lifting border restrictions.1

In February 1990, conflict arose within the Military Council led by Lekhanya. King Moshoeshoe II refused to approve dismissals from the council, resulting in his dethronement and exile. Lekhanya was later forced to resign in April 1991 after a successful coup.2

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4 Britannica Sources
  1. history of Lesotho - Political crisis
  2. Lesotho - Challenges in the 21st century
  3. history of Lesotho - The first two decades
  4. Moshoeshoe II

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