The Mariazell Alumni Association has paid tribute to veteran anti-apartheid activist and former public servant Mosiuoa ‘Terror’ Lekota, describing his passing as a profound loss to the Mariazell community and the country at large.
In a heartfelt message, the association reflected on Ntate Lekota’s deep historical connection with Mariazell, where he spent much of his secondary school years during the 1960s before completing his schooling at St Francis College Marianhill.
According to the association, Lekota’s brilliance was evident from a young age, both in the classroom and on the football field. It was during his time at Mariazell that a teacher, Mr. Mtshizana, gave him the nickname “Terror.” The name was not born out of fear or intimidation, but rather admiration for his exceptional football skills on the pitch.
The nickname stayed with him for more than six decades, eventually becoming a symbol of courage and fearlessness in his lifelong fight against injustice.
The alumni body also recalled that even in his later years, long after serving in public office and during his quiet retirement, Lekota continued to support initiatives aimed at uplifting Mariazell and its learners.
In September 2024, he travelled the long and dusty rural roads of Matatiele to attend a career exhibition and alumni launch event organised to inspire learners and help restore the fortunes of the historic institution. At the event, he shared the stage with notable figures including Mbuyiseli Madlanga, Sithembele Sipuka and Philani Potwana, CEO of FNB Private Core Banking and Channel.
During the gathering, Lekota addressed learners not as a distant political figure but as someone who had once walked the same school corridors.
In a gesture that left a lasting impression, he presented Mariazell Secondary School with a South African flag and delivered what the alumni association described as a “living history lesson” about its symbolism.
Explaining the sacrifices behind the colours of the flag, he encouraged learners to appreciate the values it represents and to dedicate themselves to serving their communities.
“On that sunny afternoon at Mariazell, Ntate Lekota turned a hall into a classroom and an alumni event into a masterclass in citizenship,” the association said.
The Mariazell Alumni Association said Lekota’s wisdom, humility and unwavering patriotism will be deeply missed.
The association extended its deepest condolences to his family and loved ones, thanking them for sharing him with the Mariazell community and South Africa as a whole.
“May they find comfort in knowing that his life uplifted communities and generations to come,” the association said.
Ntate Mosiuoa “Terror” Lekota leaves behind a legacy of courage, service and commitment to justice that will continue to inspire generations.
Rest in Peace, Ntate “Terror” Lekota.
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