LESOTHO CONDEMNS MADAGASCAR'S CHANGE OF GOVERNMENT

UNCLAS MASERU 000073 DEPT FOR AF/E AND AF/S E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: PREL KDEM MA LT SUBJECT: LESOTHO CONDEMNS MADAGASCAR'S CHANGE OF GOVERNMENT REF: STATE 029453 ¶1. On March 27, Ambassador Nolan delivered reftel's talking points to the MFA's Deputy Principal Secretary Likhela, who stated that the GOL shared the USG's concerns and strongly condemned the undemocratic transition of government in Madagascar. He was confident that Lesotho would continue to push this position in SADC's meeting to review events in Madagascar, which will be attended by Foreign Minister Tsekoa. Separately, DCM delivered reftel's talking points to Itumeleng Rafutho-Labuchagne, director of the MFA's Americas office, who reiterated the same GOL position. ¶2. The MFA also sent over a press release issued March 18, which had not been covered by the local press. In this document, the GOL "condemns strongly the unconstitutional change in government" in Madagascar, noting that President Ravalomanana "resigned under pressure from the civilian opposition and the army" and mentioning a resurgence in coups throughout Africa. A copy of this press release will be forwarded by email to AF/S and AF/E. POWER