FOUNDER OF COPE MOSIUOA “TERROR” LEKOTA DIES AT 77
The Congress of the People (COPE) founder, Mosiuoa Lekota, has passed away at the age of 77.
Lekota died early on Wednesday morning following a long illness. According to his family, he was surrounded by loved ones at the time of his passing. His eldest son, Kotana Lekota, confirmed the news, saying funeral arrangements will be announced in due course.
Lekota was a veteran of South Africa’s liberation struggle. As a young activist, he was imprisoned on Robben Island for treason during the apartheid era, where he served alongside struggle icons including Nelson Mandela.
After his release, Lekota became a prominent leader within the United Democratic Front (UDF). When the African National Congress (ANC) was unbanned in 1990, he formally joined the party and continued his political journey within its ranks.
In 1994, following South Africa’s first democratic elections, Lekota became the first Premier of the Free State under the ANC-led government. He later served as Minister of Defence, playing a key role in shaping the country’s post-apartheid defence policies.
However, political tensions within the ANC intensified after the party’s 2007 Polokwane conference, where then-President Thabo Mbeki lost the party leadership to Jacob Zuma. In the aftermath, Lekota and several senior ANC leaders, including Mbhazima Sharted Mbhazima Shilowa, broke away to establish the Congress of the People (COPE) in 2008.
Lekota remained a vocal figure in South African politics for decades, known for his firm stance on constitutionalism, accountability and internal party democracy.
His passing marks the end of an era for many who remember him as both a freedom fighter and a statesman.
Diepsloot News extends its condolences to the Lekota family, friends and supporters during this difficult time.