The Kroonstad-born leader died in the early hours of Wednesday (3/4) at the age of 77 after a period of illness. He played a pivotal role in South Africa’s democratic transition.

Serving as the first premier of the Free State from 1994 to 1996, he later founded the Congress of the People (Cope), leading the party as its president and remaining an influential voice in national politics for decades.

In a statement issued following his passing, Cope expressed deep sadness at the loss of its president and founder. Meanwhile, the Lekota family requested privacy during this time, and the party has asked the public and media to respect their wishes, Cope leader Teboho Loate said.

The party would issue regular media statements to inform the nation about developments, added Loate. “On behalf of the leadership, membership, and supporters of Cope, we extend our deepest condolences to the Lekota family and all South Africans who mourn this loss.”

Further details regarding memorial arrangements and tributes will be communicated in due course, Loate said.

President Cyril Ramaphosa also expressed sadness at Lekota’s passing.

“Terror” Lekota, as he was nicknamed, derived this name from his prowess in soccer, which formed part of his multifaceted life focused on politics and the development of the nation, said Ramaphosa.

Born on 13 August 1948 in Kroonstad, Lekota dedicated his youth and adult life to the struggle for liberation. As a member of the South African Students’ Organisation, he was prosecuted by the apartheid regime and imprisoned on Robben Island in 1974, where he spent eight years alongside struggle leaders including Nelson Mandela.

Upon his release in 1982, he returned to activism and became a leading figure in the United Democratic Front (UDF).

The UDF, a non-racial mass movement of more than 400 grassroots organisations, was established in 1983 to oppose the National Party government’s creation of the Tricameral Parliament, which excluded black South Africans.

Lekota’s involvement led to his conviction in 1988 in the four-year Delmas treason trial for treason, subversion, and murder, as the state attempted to link nonviolent resistance by the UDF to violent uprisings in the Vaal Triangle.

Although he was sentenced to twelve years’ imprisonment, his conviction and those of his fellow accused were overturned in 1989. In the democratic era, Lekota became a long-serving member and national chairperson of the ANC. He served as the inaugural chairperson of the National Council of Provinces from 1997 to 1999, and was named minister of defence in 1999, a position he held until 2008, before he became the founding president of Cope.

“South Africa has lost a patriot, a freedom fighter, and a servant of the people whose life story is closely intertwined with our journey of struggle and the realisation of democracy,” said Ramaphosa.

“His life was one of resilience, courage, and steadfast belief in justice. We honour him especially for his principled dedication to non-racialism during our struggle and in a liberated South Africa. We deeply value his service to his home province, where he served as premier, and to our armed forces and our national security, in his role as minister of defence.”

His establishment of Cope reflected his commitment to the values and principles by which he had lived and added to the diversity of choices presented to the electorate as the country’s democracy matured, Ramaphosa added.

“We will remember Mosiuoa for his patriotism, his intellect, and his personable nature, and we will continue to work for the inclusive, non-racial South Africa for which he sacrificed so much and worked so passionately.”

The EFF and DA have also sent condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of Lekota. DA leader John Steenhuisen said South Africa has lost a seasoned leader whose voice and experience played an important role in shaping our country’s democratic discourse.

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OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi sm