Ministry of Justice and Law
National Assembly of Lesotho
Expression of Interest (EOI)
Recruitment Consultancy for IEC Commissioners Appointment
1. Introduction
The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) of Lesotho, established under Section 66 of the Constitution, is mandated to oversee the conduct of free, fair, and credible elections. As a cornerstone of democratic governance, the IEC operates with constitutional independence and is guided by national legal frameworks and international best practices.
In line with its mandate and the upcoming expiration of the tenure of three Commissioners in December 2025, the Government of Lesotho seeks to initiate a transparent, merit-based, and impartial recruitment process for new IEC Commissioners.
2. Context of Services Required
The Ministry of Justice and Law, in collaboration with the Forum of Political Parties, invites qualified consultancy firms to express interest in facilitating the recruitment process for new IEC Commissioners.
The selected firm will:
- Design and implement a professional, inclusive, and legally compliant recruitment process.
- Assist the Forum of Political Parties in preparing a shortlist of applicants for submission to the Council of State, in accordance with Section 44(4) of the Constitution of Lesotho.
3. Purpose and Relevance
This recruitment exercise is vital to reinforcing the independence and credibility of the IEC. A transparent and fair selection process will:
- Enhance public trust in electoral management.
- Contribute to political stability and democratic governance in Lesotho.
4. Contextual Considerations
The recruitment process must be:
- Sensitive to Lesotho’s political dynamics and stakeholder interests.
- Conducted with neutrality, confidentiality, and cultural sensitivity.
- Capable of operating in a politically polarized environment.
5. Specific Objectives
The consultancy will:
- Facilitate the appointment of qualified, impartial, and competent IEC Commissioners.
- Ensure the process is transparent, professional, and merit-based.
- Align all activities with constitutional provisions and international standards.
6. Scope of Work
Under the oversight of the Political Parties Forum, the consultant will:
Key Responsibilities:
- Examine legal and institutional frameworks
- Develop inclusive recruitment methodology
- Conduct preliminary selection and shortlisting
- Assess and evaluate applications
- Shortlist top 10 candidates
- Conduct competency-based assessments
- Facilitate interviews via a competent panel
- Report final results to the client
7. Expected Outputs and Deliverables
| Deliverable | Description | Timeline | Submitted To |
|---|---|---|---|
| Inception Report | Legal/institutional review; recruitment methodology | Day 1–2 | Ministry of Justice and Law; Political Parties Forum |
| Screening Report | Shortlisting based on selection criteria | Day 5–6 | |
| Assessment Summary | Competency-based assessments; support to interview panel | Day 7–8 | |
| Final Recruitment Report | Comprehensive report with recommended shortlist | Day 9–10 | Ministry of Justice and Law; Political Parties Forum |
8. Qualifications and Experience
Experience & Track Record:
- 5–10 years in executive recruitment or talent acquisition
- Experience with governance institutions or international organizations
- Prior work with electoral bodies or statutory commissions is an asset
Technical Expertise:
- Knowledge of governance frameworks in Lesotho or similar African institutions
- Proven ability to design inclusive, merit-based recruitment processes
- Familiarity with gender-sensitive and diversity-focused recruitment
Human Resources Capacity:
- Multidisciplinary team (HR, governance, legal affairs)
- At least one senior expert with knowledge of African electoral institutions
Additional Requirements:
- Neutrality in politically sensitive environments
- Strong analytical, writing, and presentation skills
- Ability to deliver within tight timelines
- Tax compliance
9. Submission Instructions
Important:
- No financial proposals should be submitted at this stage.
- Submit technical proposals and credentials only.
Address Applications To:
Clerk to the National Assembly of Lesotho
Issue Date: 17 September 2025
Closing Date: 25 September 2025 at 10:00 a.m.
10. Opening of Expressions of Interest
EOI documents will be opened on 25 September 2025 at 10:00 a.m. at the New Parliament Building, Maseru, by the Clerk to the National Assembly, in the presence of the Forum of Political Parties and attending bidders or their representatives.
11. Clarifications and Contact
All questions and clarifications should be directed to:
Office of the Clerk, National Assembly, Lesotho Parliament
Notice Issued By:
Advocate Lekhetho Rakuoane
Mr. Molibeli Soro
Secretary to the Registered Political Parties