WORLD IN BRIEF : LESOTHO : Military Ruler Acts to Bolster Power

Lesotho’s military ruler stripped King Moshoeshoe II of his powers after the king refused to approve the arrests, dismissals and replacements of four military officials in the small southern Africa kingdom. The action was seen as an effort by Maj. Gen. Justin M. Lekhanya to consolidate power. The four men, including two of the king’s cousins, were arrested Monday and are accused of plotting against the government. Lekhanya said the king remains head of state but that the ruling military council will carry out his duties. Sources said King Moshoeshoe, who has not been seen in public since Monday, was probably under house arrest.