Makgoe has been serving as a member of the Provincial Legislature in the province since the dawn of democracy in 1994. 

He lost his life alongside his protector, Vuyo Mdi, in a car accident in the early hours of Sunday 5 March 2023. 

Members of the Provincial Legislature have since paid tribute to the fallen giant. The speaker of the Legislature, Zanele Sifuba, convened a special roll call sitting in honour of Makgoe. Different political parties were united in paying their tribute and shared one view: "The Free State province is poorer without MEC Makgoe.”

The provincial department of Education, under Makgoe as MEC, has been able to obtain the best pass rate in South Africa for matriculants for four conservative years. 

At his tribute, it was said that he had vast experience. Many speakers remembered MEC Makgoe as the epitome of discipline and fairness. He was likened to an army general because of his distinguished respect for the decorum of the house. He will also be remembered for his warmth, his smile, and his humourous character.

An Economic Freedom Fighters' (EFF) Member of the Legislature Seipati Nanyane, said Makgoe is a hero, a dedicated and learned servant of the people. “Even in opposing views he was graceful and respectful. The Free State’s Education Department has the status it has because of Makgoe’s dedication."

The Freedom Front Plus’ Armand Cloete said Makgoe was never personal, even though they had shared different political views, he remained fair. “With honourable Makgoe it was never about flesh and blood. We fought political ideas with each other, we disagreed, but he remained the same.” 

The Democratic Alliance’s Roy Jankielsohn reflected back on the time he arrived in the Free State Legislature. “Honourable speaker, when I first arrived in the provincial legislature from parliament in 2006, he was here and he still participated in Friday’s debates. I never thought he would not be here when I retire.”

"Tate's passing caught us off guard. Makgoe was a complete man, an unusual man, distinguished by honour. Tate was a great man who would be great anywhere in the world. He possessed superior intellect and grace. His spirit will never die. Thank you for enriching our lives," said ANC provincial secretary Polediso Motsoeneng.

“Today marks a very sombre and painful moment for the loving people of the Free State and South Africa. We pay tribute to a friend, comrade and colleague. He distinguished himself in various capacities in this august House. In your memory, our government will forever prioritise the education of our youth. You have run your race," added the provincial Premier, Mxolisi Dukwana. The Free State prides itself on being a reflection of educational excellence because of Makgoe's innovative thinking, foresight, hard work, and dedication that found expression nationwide.

Former provincial premier Sisi Ntombela has also offered her condolences. "I am absolutely shattered by the news of the passing of one of the province’s brightest stars. Comrade Tate was an absolute joy to work with. To have worked with him and witnessed his transformation from a young man as an MEC to a giant who revolutionised our education system is a memory I will always cherish. His passing has dealt a devastating blow to the Free State province, whose excellence in education is known across the country, thanks to comrade Makgoe's hard work," she added.

ActionSA provincial chairperson, Patricia Kopane, previously said that the role played by the late Education MEC in fulfilling his civic responsibilities of serving the people of the Free State needs to be acknowledged. She stated Makgoe characterised what is right with the education system, and under his leadership, the Free State achieved the highest matric pass rate over four consecutive years. 

Congress of the People (COPE) national chairperson, Dennis Bloem, also expressed his shock and sadness at the passing of Makgoe. "This is a massive loss, not only to his family and the Free State province but a loss to the entire country. Tate Makgoe was a patriot who loved his people and country. He dedicated his whole life to fighting for the freedom of the oppressed masses of this country from a very young age. He was a leading figure in our struggle for the Free State. He spent time in jail for his involvement in the freedom struggle," he said.

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