PRETORIA — The Congress of the People (COPE) has confirmed the death of its founding leader and liberation struggle veteran Mosiuoa “Terror” Lekota, who passed away in the early hours of Wednesday morning at the age of 77.
The veteran politician had stepped back from active politics last year due to declining health and passed away following a period of illness. COPE leader Teboho Loate confirmed the news, stating that the Lekota family has requested privacy while memorial arrangements are being finalized.
Born in Kroonstad, Lekota earned the nickname “Terror” as a formidable football player before becoming a central figure in the fight against apartheid. He was expelled from the University of the North in 1972 for his involvement in student politics and the South African Students Organisation.
Lekota’s activism led to several periods of imprisonment, most notably on Robben Island alongside Nelson Mandela. He later served as the publicity secretary for the United Democratic Front (UDF) in 1983 and was a defendant in the Delmas treason trial in 1985.
Following the 1994 democratic transition, Lekota rose to prominent positions within the African National Congress (ANC). He served as the first Premier of the Free State from 1994 to 1996 and held the position of ANC national chairperson from 1997 to 2007. Between 1999 and 2008, he served as South Africa’s Minister of Defence under President Thabo Mbeki.
In 2008, following the recall of Thabo Mbeki, Lekota led a significant breakaway from the ANC to co-found the Congress of the People (COPE). Under his leadership, the party initially secured 7.42 percent of the national vote in 2009, though its electoral support declined significantly in subsequent years.
Throughout his later career, Lekota remained a polarizing and outspoken figure. He was known for his staunch opposition to Jacob Zuma and more recently drew headlines for his alignment with AfriForum regarding land expropriation debates.
Lekota is survived by his family, though he also faced personal tragedy during his life, including the death of his eldest daughter, Masetjhaba, in 1996.
COPE officials indicated that updates regarding tributes and funeral arrangements for the former minister will be provided in due course.
Anyone with additional information relating to this story can contact us through email press@townpress.co.za.
Facebook Comments