Why was King Moshoeshoe II dethroned in 1990?

King Moshoeshoe II was dethroned in 1990 primarily due to a political conflict within the ruling Military Council, which was led by Major General Justin Lekhanya.123

The tension escalated in February 1990 when the King refused to approve several dismissals from the Military Council that had been proposed by Lekhanya. Following this refusal, the King was forced into exile in England and subsequently deposed. His eldest son, Mohato, was then sworn in as King Letsie III, who pledged to remain uninvolved in the country's politics.231

While in exile, Moshoeshoe II had also attempted to initiate democratic elections, which further contributed to the political friction with the military leadership at the time. He was eventually reinstated as king in 1995 following a period of political transition.123