Tributes continue to pour in following the death of Congress of the People (COPE) leader and co-founder, Mosiuoa Gerard Patrick Lekota, who passed away at the age of 77.
Lekota died in a Johannesburg hospital in the early hours of Wednesday morning after a prolonged illness, leaving a lasting legacy as a dedicated steward of South Africa’s democracy.
The party confirmed his passing in a statement, saying: “The Congress of the People (COPE) confirms with deep sadness the passing of its President, Mr. Mosiuoa Gerard Patrick Lekota, earlier today after a period of illness. The Lekota family has requested privacy during this difficult time, and the party asks the public and media to respect their wishes.”
“The party will issue regular media statements to inform the nation about developments. Further details regarding memorial arrangements and tributes will be communicated in due course. 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.”
Lekota, fondly known as “Terror” from his youth as a soccer player, was a veteran anti-apartheid activist who endured imprisonment for his political beliefs.
He served South Africa with distinction, including as the first Premier of the Free State following the 1994 democratic transition, and later as Minister of Defence from 1999 to 2008.
Fellow political leaders also expressed their condolences, remembering him for his unwavering commitment to justice and equality.
The Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) highlighted its lifelong commitment to public service:
“The IFP extends its deepest condolences to the Lekota family, members of COPE, and all South Africans whose lives he touched through his decades of public service and principled leadership. Mr Lekota was a committed freedom fighter who played a significant role in South Africa’s liberation struggle. As an anti-apartheid activist, he endured imprisonment for his political beliefs and remained steadfast in his pursuit of justice and equality. In the democratic era, he served the nation with distinction, including as Minister of Defence from 1999 to 2008, and as the first Premier of the Free State following South Africa’s transition to democracy in 1994.”
Roger Solomons, spokesperson for BOSA, noted Lekota’s dedication to advancing democratic institutions and electoral reform.
“Today we note with sadness the passing of Mosiuoa ‘Terror’ Lekota, a veteran of South Africa’s liberation struggle and a lifelong servant of the people. Honourable Lekota dedicated the majority of his life to the pursuit of justice and democracy. From his formative years in the fight against apartheid to his service as cabinet minister and ANC chair in democratic South Africa, he remained a principled and steadfast advocate for accountability and the strengthening of our democratic institutions.”
Democratic Alliance leader John Steenhuisen called Lekota a patriot and man of substance: “One need not always have agreed with him to appreciate his dedication to our country’s success. From his activism on the ground to Robben Island to democratic politics, he dedicated all he had to give to the service of the South African people.”
RISE Mzansi paid tribute to Lekota’s unwavering principles, saying: “Many will remember him for the political positions he held, but we should most prominently remember him for his principled positions, even in the face of criticism and humiliation.”
Patricia de Lille, leader of the GOOD Party and Minister of Tourism, also offered condolences: “The GOOD Party extends its heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of Mosiuoa ‘Terror’ Lekota, the founding leader of the Congress of the People (COPE), following his passing at the age of 77. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Lekota family and the members of COPE during this time of mourning. May his soul rest in peace.”