Reflecting on the Negative Impact of the First Ladies in Governance: Case Study of Lesotho and Zimbabwe
Dr. Mokete Pherudi

Abstract
The role of the First Ladies in governance particularly in Southern Africa became an area of research following the roles of former first Ladies of both Lesotho and Zimbabwe, ?Maesaiah Thabane and Grace Mugabe respectively. The paper traces the concept of the First Lady. It also provides a brief background of both ?Maesaiah and Grace and how they rose to the positions of First Ladies. Their shenanigans in negatively influencing their husbands on governance and party administrative matters resulted in unending party conflicts, creating enemies among old-time comrades and undermining their husbands through their unbecoming actions. Their actions and incidents that ended the political careers of their husbands is explored. The paper ends with conclusion and recommendations.

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