Warden Messages

U.S. Embassy Maseru, Lesotho

Warden Message

February 22, 2007

Dear Fellow American Citizens in Lesotho:

National elections were held on Saturday, February 17, 2007. We are now in the immediate post-election period.

The Lesotho Mounted Police Service (LMPS) has advised that a combined ABC/BNP political party rally will be held Sunday, February 25, 2007 at the Race Course (near the Police Training College) along the east side of the road to the Thetsane Industrial Area.  We do not have information at present as to the time of the rally.  If past precedent stands, the rally could take place during the mid-to-late morning hours.  Additional rallies may take place on Friday and/or Saturday February 23-24. 

Authorities have granted a permit for the Sunday rally. The police have stated they will monitor the situation closely. The Lesotho Mounted Police Services Assistant Commissioner for Maseru District advises that police officials are also fully prepared for any contingency the rally might present. 

The U.S. Embassy advises continuation of your heightened vigilance during this post-election period.  We urge each of you to take greater precautionary measures during this time.  If at all possible, avoid large crowds or gatherings.

We continue to encourage U.S. citizens living in or traveling in Lesotho 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 and 9:00 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.