UN General Assembly
1979

210. The instability of the political situation in southern Africa has often been seen against the background of three distinct areas of conflict—South Africa, Namibia and Zimbabwe. It is the contention of the Lesotho Government that the problem of southern Africa is one and has its roots in the apartheid system of South Africa. It is in the interests of that system to create puppet Bantustans in South Africa and to maintain the status quo in Namibia and Zimbabwe. Therefore, we welcomed the decision of the United Kingdom Government, the colonial Power in Zimbabwe, to call an all-party conference, currently under way in London. It is to be hoped that the constitutional conference will bring a new era of genuine independence, peace and stability in Zimbabwe. While we believe that violent confrontation should be avoided, it is our contention that the alternatives should not be reduced by the United Kingdom's tacit approval of illegal manoeuvres by Ian Smith and Bishop Muzorewa. No lasting settlement can be achieved unless serious account is taken of the legitimate concerns of the Patriotic Front.