Strengthening Africa's Governance Architecture: Lessons from Lesotho's First APRM Processes

The discussion above was intended to review Lesotho’s experience as the twelfth AU country to undergo the APRM process and to draw lessons of benefit for the future. Based on the discussion above, it can be concluded broadly that despite some questions and issues of the autonomy of the process from government influence and control (especially through legal/ contractual delays as well as funding issues), the review process was adjudged to be adequately competent in its execution, as well as legitimate and of sufficient procedural integrity. The assessment benefitted from a good working relationship between the NGC and the TRI’s. This ensured a high-quality assessment and thereby promoted the acceptance of the outcome and the findings of the APR in this country. In terms of the legitimacy of the APRM process and technical competence of the assessment, the main observation is that early and constant communication and commonality of purpose between NGC and TRIs is central. It can also be concluded that the involvement of citizens, organised interest groups and political parties was adequate, although the issue of inclusion of familiar and politically mobilised and powerful organisations at the expense of other less but still important interests was raised.