Mohammad Najibullah vs Tom Thabane

Mohammad Najibullah served as President of Afghanistan from 1987 to 1992, leading the Soviet-backed Democratic Republic of Afghanistan. He implemented a policy of National Reconciliation, attempting to broaden his government's base and end the civil war, but ultimately failed to prevent the mujahideen's victory.

In April 1992, Najibullah's government collapsed as mujahideen forces entered Kabul. He resigned and sought refuge in the UN compound in Kabul, where he remained for four years. This event marked the end of communist rule in Afghanistan and the beginning of a brutal civil war.

When the Taliban captured Kabul in September 1996, they stormed the UN compound, captured Najibullah, and executed him along with his brother. His body was mutilated and displayed in public. This act signaled the Taliban's brutal consolidation of power.

Thabane became Prime Minister after leading a coalition government following the 2012 general election, ending Pakalitha Mosisili's 14-year rule. His All Basotho Convention party won the most seats but required coalition partners to form a government.

Thabane fled to South Africa claiming a coup attempt by the military. He returned after Southern African Development Community mediation, but the incident highlighted deep political instability and civil-military tensions in Lesotho.

Thabane's government collapsed after a no-confidence vote, leading to a snap election which he lost to Pakalitha Mosisili. His brief tenure was marked by political turmoil and coalition instability.

Thabane won the 2017 snap election, returning as Prime Minister after Mosisili's government fell. His coalition government again faced challenges, including internal party disputes and corruption allegations.

Thabane resigned as Prime Minister after being implicated in the murder of his ex-wife. He faced mounting pressure from his party and the public, leading to his resignation and replacement by Moeketsi Majoro.