Mr Thabane had also ensured the arrest and jailing of rogues like former army commander, Tlali Kamoli, who had unleased a reign of terror in Lesotho and caused untold suffering.

Prof Nyane said Mr Thabane's formation of ABC in 2006 and his ultimate ascension to power in 2012 heralded the era of plurality and diversity in the political landscape in Lesotho.

Whenever key appointees tried to do their work professionally, such as in the instances of police commissioner Holomo Molibeli and Court of Appeal president Kananelo Mosito, and in the process crossed Mr Thabane's path, he "abused" his powers by trying to dismiss them.

Prof Makoa said Mr Thabane has also left important arms of government such as the judiciary in a quandary by his incessant attempts to meddle into their affairs.

National University of Lesotho lecturer, Mahao Mahao, said when Mr Thabane came into office for his second stint in June 2017, he brought much hope to many people who had been disappointed with the previous Mosisili government.