Lesotho Opposition Pushes for ID-Based Travel with South Africa

Basotho Action Party Launches Campaign for Free Movement

The Basotho Action Party (BAP), a prominent opposition party in Lesotho, has initiated a campaign calling for the abolition of passport requirements for travel between Lesotho and South Africa. Led by Professor Nqosa Mahao, the party proposes that citizens of both nations should be permitted to cross borders using only their national identity cards. This initiative was launched in Maseru last week, around mid-October 2025.

The BAP's petition extends beyond mere travel, advocating for a comprehensive framework that would allow citizens to:

• Use national ID cards instead of passports for cross-border movement.
• Work, study, and access healthcare freely in either country.
• Participate in local elections wherever they reside.

Historical Ties and Economic Imperatives Drive Proposal

Professor Mahao articulated that the proposal is rooted in the deep historical ties and shared solidarity between Lesotho and South Africa, particularly Lesotho's support during South Africa's liberation struggle. He highlighted that current arrangements, such as six-month visitor visas and special permits, are 'piecemeal' and fail to address the challenges faced by thousands of Basotho who live and work in South Africa. The party also points to the increasing vulnerability of Basotho migrants in South Africa, who often encounter discrimination and exclusion.

The BAP leader has suggested adopting an 'Ireland–UK model' or Common Travel Area (CTA) as a blueprint for enhanced cooperation, which would allow citizens to live, work, and access services in either jurisdiction without immigration restrictions.

Government Response and Ongoing Discussions

In response to the growing calls for eased travel restrictions, Lesotho's Minister of Home Affairs, Lebona Lephema, indicated that both the Lesotho and South African governments are already in the process of developing a new migration model. This model aims to ease restrictions on travel, residency, and employment between the two countries. Furthermore, a joint study between Lesotho's Ministry of Home Affairs and South Africa's Department of Home Affairs on the use of identity documents for border crossing was launched in February 2025.

Currently, South African passport holders do not require visas for stays up to 30 days in Lesotho. However, Lesotho citizens generally require a passport to enter South Africa, with some receiving short-term visas. Most international travelers also require a passport for entry into Lesotho.

Basotho Action Party's Stance

The Basotho Action Party, established on April 23, 2021, by Professor Nqosa Mahao, secured 6 seats in the 2022 Lesotho general election. The party emphasizes that its proposal for ID-based travel would not compromise the sovereignty of either nation.