Mosiuoa Gerard Patrick Lekota, the renowned anti-apartheid struggle icon, former Minister of Defence, and founding leader of the Congress of the People (COPE), passed away in the early hours of Wednesday at a Johannesburg hospital following a prolonged illness. He was 77.
Lekota, affectionately known as “Terror” from his youthful soccer days, was confirmed dead by COPE deputy leader Teboho Loate, who described the loss as following “a period of illness.” A family member, K Lekota, added that he died in the presence of his loved ones. The Lekota family has requested privacy as they grieve, and COPE has urged the public and media to respect their wishes.
Born on August 13, 1948, in Kroonstad in the Free State, Lekota emerged as a key figure in the fight against apartheid. As a student leader in the South African Students’ Organisation (SASO), he was arrested in 1974 for organizing pro-independence celebrations for Mozambique. Charged under the Terrorism Act, he served six years on Robben Island from 1974 to 1982. He faced further imprisonment during the 1985 Delmas Treason Trial.
After South Africa’s democratic transition, Lekota held prominent roles, including Premier of the Free State province and, under President Thabo Mbeki, Minister of Defence from 1999 to 2008. Disillusioned with shifts in the African National Congress (ANC) following Mbeki’s 2008 recall, Lekota co-founded COPE as a breakaway party, serving as its president and advocating for constitutionalism, accountability, and principled governance.
He stepped back from active politics in 2025 to prioritize his health, leading to Loate’s appointment as interim leader.
Tributes have begun flowing in from across South Africa’s political spectrum, honoring his lifelong dedication to democracy and the liberation struggle.
The Democratic Alliance (DA), led by John Steenhuisen, expressed deep sadness, calling Lekota “a patriot and a man of substance” who showed courage by choosing a principled path over patronage. Steenhuisen highlighted his service in Parliament, as Free State Premier, National Council of Provinces Chairperson, and Defence Minister, noting that his commitment to the Constitution earned respect even among those who differed with him.
The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) sent deepest condolences to his family and COPE, wishing his soul eternal peace.
COPE itself described his passing as a huge loss, with Loate extending heartfelt sympathies to the family and all South Africans mourning the veteran leader.
Details of memorial arrangements and further tributes are expected to be announced in the coming days. Lekota’s legacy as a freedom fighter who endured imprisonment, championed democratic values, and fearlessly challenged the status quo will endure in South Africa’s political history.