Mosiuoa 'Terror' Lekota, co-founder of the Congress of the People (COPE) and a prominent figure in South African politics, has died at the age of 77. According to multiple reports, Lekota passed away on Wednesday morning in Johannesburg after a long illness.
Key Takeaways
Mosiuoa 'Terror' Lekota, co-founder of the Congress of the People (COPE) and former South African Defence Minister, has died at age 77. He will receive a Special Official Funeral Category 2 on March 14 in Bloemfontein.
- Mosiuoa Lekota dies after long illness at age 77
- Special Official Funeral Category 2 declared by President Ramaphosa
- Funeral details to be finalized Friday with family and government officials
- Leaders from COPE and ANC praise his contributions to liberation struggle
- National Flag to fly at half-mast until evening of funeral
Lekota served as Free State Premier, Defence Minister, and ANC national chair before leaving to form COPE in 2008. His body has been transported to Bloemfontein, where he will be laid to rest. President Cyril Ramaphosa announced that Lekota will receive a Special Official Funeral Category 2 on March 14.
Leaders from both COPE and the ANC have praised Lekota's role in the liberation struggle and his decades of public service. Interim COPE president Teboho Loate vowed to protect and preserve Lekota's legacy, stating that it would be a sad day if COPE were to die after his departure.
Free State Premier Maqueen Letsoha-Mathae also honored Lekota, describing him as instrumental and hardworking. She noted that he ran the province in a manner that transcended party lines. Seth Mazibuko, a 1976 youth leader, praised Lekota's fearlessness and courage to speak the truth, remembering his role on Robben Island.
Lekota's passing has been met with tributes from colleagues who remember his significant contributions to South Africa's freedom struggle. Former COPE deputy president Willy Madisha remarked that history will forever remember Lekota for his efforts. President Ramaphosa described Lekota as a patriot, freedom fighter, and servant of the people, whose life was intertwined with the journey of struggle and the realization of democracy.
Funeral details are yet to be finalized. Acting COPE leader Teboho Loate said the party will meet with the family and government officials on Friday to determine the way forward. The funeral is set to take place in Bloemfontein and will feature ceremonial elements provided by the South African Police Service.
Stephen Grootes from dailymaverick.co.za highlighted that while Lekota will be remembered for his role in the United Democratic Front and his fight against apartheid, there is a danger that his subsequent contributions to South Africa's democracy might be overshadowed. Grootes emphasized the importance of recognizing Lekota's broader impact on the nation's political landscape.
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