Lesotho Update

We wanted to update you all again with the situation that is here in Lesotho. Please read the last post for the first day of the "stay away" days for the factory workers. After that strange and eventful day, there was very little news yesterday, other than the occasional workers still picketing on the main street by the factories. There were two more shootings yesterday. And, protesters were pulling people out of their houses and beating them, if they were found to have gone to work. One of our staff had to dress in disguise so that he could make it to work. Beautiful Gate sent most of our staff home early yesterday so that they would be safely there when the tension level was set to rise (3-5pm was anticipated to be the most tense hours, as that is when the factories were to let out).
Today happily started off quiet, but we are not sending the van into town for fear of the protesters either injuring the vehicle or even shooting at our staff in the van. Sounds rough, but anyone that is perceived to not be following the "stay away" policy is considered to be against them. (Even though they would agree that an orphanage cannot stop its operations). We were also able to learn that the Government of Lesotho has turned off all public radio stations in the area today. This is unfortunate for us, as this was our easiest way to gather information on what was going on around the area. This has made some of our staff a little concerned, in that the government is starting to take away the "Freedom Of Speech" by shutting down the radio stations. Of course, we can get the one channel that is run by the Government. And, we are also able to pick up one other South African radio station. So, I am now having to listen to my drivers each time they are out and about in town to see how things are progressing. This is very tough, as each person can have their own opinions.
We have also heard that the Prime Minister of Lesotho has fled to South Africa. This is not surprising, as he appears to have sided with the Chinese factories all along and has not even made an effort at negotiations in this process.
Also today, protesters were being arrested and put in jail. But the worst part is that we are hearing that the judges are no longer hearing their cases at sentencing, so the protesters are just having to wait.
We have also heard that South Africa has sent representatives to assist the Lesotho Government with this situation. Hopefully they can restore peace and work towards peaceful negotiations.
Happily, Beautiful Gate has been able to keep a low profile through this and we have not had any incidences during this time. All our staff are safe and staying out of the politics (without being caught by either side). Today is also supposed to be the final day of the "stay away" protest. So, we are anxiously waiting to see what tomorrow will bring. We are still taking precautionary measures tomorrow, but are hoping to have some of the staffing issues return to normal.
I must say that I have learned a lot during this time! And Anita and I continue to ask you to pray for Lesotho and the situation. We know that God is in control and we pray that all sides will be heard.
Thank you for your prayers and support during this time!
Keeping you informed,
Bryan