Warden Messages

U.S. Embassy Maseru, Lesotho

Warden Message

February 9, 2007

Dear Fellow American Citizens in Lesotho:

The Lesotho Mounted Police Service (LMPS) has advised that the last day of authorized political party rallies in the country will be this Sunday, February 11. Three political party rallies are planned for that day here in Maseru.  The rallies will take place at three separate locations as follows:

*  Race Course (near the Police Training College)

*  Manthabiseng (above the Convention Center)

*  Leper Community (near Makoanyane Barracks)

The police will be routing traffic to these locations via separate avenues in an attempt to reduce confusion and potential conflict, according to the Assistant Commissioner for Maseru District. 

To the greatest extent possible, traffic to the Race Course will be routed via the Maseru By-Pass Road. Those attending rallies at Manthabiseng will be routed via the Main South Road. The police will direct those going to the Leper Community via the ha Foso Road, they said. The LMPS must authorize in advance any large gathering.

We encourage all American citizens to avoid the demonstration areas and to take all the usual security precautions when traveling in Maseru on Sunday.

The U.S. Embassy strongly advises that American citizens exercise heightened vigilance during the period leading up to the national elections that are scheduled to be held on Saturday, February 17, and for the weeks that follow during the publication of election results. Please take greater precautionary measures during this time. If at all possible, avoid large crowds or gatherings. We ask that you also heed the following advice.

WALKING

Never walk around Maseru at night. Pedestrians are also vulnerable to criminal activity. There is safety in numbers; if you must walk (to/from your vehicle to/from a commercial establishment, for example) always make an effort to walk with a group of people. Maintain close-hold of your personal possessions and do not carry or wear valuables. As much as possible try to reduce the number of items you carry. If attacked, do not resist. Attackers can become violent should you try to maintain hold of your belongings. It is better to lose your possessions than risk being injured or worse.

DRIVING

When driving, keep your doors locked and windows up. Do not leave any items visible in the passenger compartment while driving or parked. Lock valuables in the trunk before you park. If you park and then place valuables in the trunk, someone watching may be tempted to break in after you leave.

Be on the lookout for suspicious-looking individuals while stopped at traffic lights and leave room between your car and the car in front of you in case you have to pull out quickly. Drive defensively. Do not drink and drive and be alert for drunk drivers. Nighttime driving outside of Maseru is very strongly discouraged.

AT HOME

There have been reports of criminals using ruses to gain access to residential compounds. Use your security alarm. It is an excellent security deterrent – but only if it is in proper working order and you use it. Check to make sure that your security lights are all working.

U.S. citizens living in or traveling in Lesotho are encouraged to register with the nearest U.S. Embassy through the State Department’s travel registration website, https://travelregistration.state.gov/, and to obtain updated information on travel and security in Lesotho. Americans without Internet access may register directly with the nearest U.S. Embassy.

The Consular Section of the Embassy in Maseru, Lesotho is located at 254 Kingsway Avenue, Maseru 100. American citizens can call 22-312-666 during office hours from 9:00 a.m. to

4:00 p.m. Monday to Thursday and9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Friday. For after-hours emergencies an American officer from the Embassy can be reached by cellular telephone at 5888-4035. The e-mail address for the Consular Section in Maseru is Consular,Maseru@state.gov.