President Cyril Ramaphosa has extended heartfelt condolences following the passing of veteran politician and struggle stalwart Mosiuoa Lekota, describing him as a patriot whose life was deeply intertwined with South Africa’s liberation and democratic journey.
Lekota passed away earlier today at the age of 77. In a statement, the President said his thoughts and prayers were with Lekota’s family, the Congress of the People and political associates across the spectrum.
Born on 13 August 1948 in Kroonstad, Lekota — affectionately known as “Terror” for his skill on the soccer field — dedicated his youth and adult life to the struggle against apartheid. He was a member and organiser of the South African Students’ Organisation and was imprisoned on Robben Island in 1974.
He spent eight years behind bars alongside icons such as Nelson Mandela before his release in 1982. Lekota later became a leading figure in the United Democratic Front (UDF), a broad coalition formed in 1983 to oppose apartheid’s Tricameral Parliament.
In 1988, he was convicted during the Delmas Treason Trial and sentenced to 12 years in prison, but his conviction was overturned in 1989.
In the democratic era, Lekota served as the first Premier of the Free State from 1994 to 1996. He later became the inaugural Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces from 1997 to 1999 and served as Minister of Defence from 1999 to 2008. He also held the position of National Chairperson of the African National Congress before co-founding COPE in 2008.
Paying tribute, President Ramaphosa said South Africa has lost a patriot, a freedom fighter and a servant of the people.
“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,” the President said.
Ramaphosa also praised Lekota’s role in strengthening democratic institutions, particularly his contribution to establishing the National Council of Provinces to enhance community representation.
“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,” President Ramaphosa said.
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