15 Aug 2018 | 07:09 PM UTC
Lesotho: Factory workers' protests continue in Maseru August 15
Factory workers' protests continue in Maseru as of August 15; clashes between protesters and police possible near demonstration sites
Event
Factory workers demanding higher wages continued to stage demonstrations in Maseru near the Lerotholi Polytechnic Institute on Wednesday, August 15, while others blocked traffic on Moshoeshoe Road. According to US diplomatic authorities in Lesotho, demonstrations are likely to continue as protesters plan to reassert their grievances to the high court on Thursday, August 16. A heightened security presence and localized traffic disruptions are expected near demonstration sites. Clashes between protesters and police cannot be ruled out.
Context
On August 14, protests turned violent when police reportedly fired rubber bullets and water cannons onto crowds of demonstrators gathered at Thetsane Industrial area, outside of Maseru.
According to local media, the factory workers have been on strike since July 9 - when the government failed to meet the workers' 14-day ultimatum demanding increased wages.
Advice
Individuals in Maseru are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all demonstrations and protests due to the risk of violence, and adhere to any instructions issued by the local authorities.
