Early in his reign, Chief Leabua Jonathan became Prime Minister of Lesotho and gained control of the government.

Jonathan suspended Moshoeshoe in 1970 to reestablish his control in the country after his party lost the election.

A few months later, when he gained control, Jonathan allowed Moshoeshoe to reassume the title of King.

[5] According to a government statement, Moshoeshoe had set out at 1 am to visit his cattle at Matsieng, and was returning to Maseru through the Maloti Mountains when his car left the road.

[5] Moshoeshoe married Princess Tabitha 'Masentle Lerotholi Mojela (later known as Queen 'Mamohato of Lesotho) in 1962, and with her had two sons and one daughter:[4]