What happened during the 1986 border blockade between South Africa and Lesotho?

In January 1986, South African authorities imposed severe restrictions on the movement of people and goods across the border, effectively creating a blockade against Lesotho. This action was taken amid deteriorating relations, as South Africa pressured the Lesotho government to expel South African refugees and address concerns regarding the African National Congress.12

In response to the economic pressure caused by the blockade, a pro-South African faction within the Lesotho government, led by Maj. Gen. Justin Lekhanya, deposed Chief Leabua Jonathan and established military rule. Following this change in leadership, the new Military Council banned open political activity and deported a number of South African refugees, prompting South Africa to lift the blockade.12

The resolution of this crisis paved the way for the Lesotho Highlands Water Treaty, signed in October 1986, which initiated a large-scale water transfer project between the two nations.12