Mosiuoa Lekota, COPE Founder and Ex-Minister, Dies at 77

Mosiuoa Lekota, the founding leader of the Congress of the People (COPE) and a prominent figure in South Africa’s post-apartheid political landscape, has died at the age of 77. The party confirmed his passing on [Date of announcement], stating the family has requested privacy during this period of mourning.

COPE issued a formal statement expressing its grief. “On behalf of leadership, membership, and supporters of COPE, we extend our deepest condolences to the Lekota family and all South Africans who mourn this loss,” the statement read. It acknowledged his foundational role in the party, which was established in 2008 following a major split from the African National Congress (ANC).

Lekota’s retirement from active politics occurred last year due to deteriorating health. His stepping down prompted the party’s national executive committee to appoint Teboho Loate as the interim leader of COPE, a position he continues to hold.

Lekota’s political career spanned several critical decades. He served as the first Premier of the Free State province from 1994 to 1996, immediately after the end of apartheid. He later held the influential national portfolio of Minister of Defence from 1999 to 2008 under President Thabo Mbeki. His departure from the ANC cabinet coincided with his decision to co-found COPE, positioning the party as a significant opposition force in the 2009 general election.

The former Member of Parliament will be laid to rest in his hometown of Bloemfontein, with funeral arrangements to be announced by the family.

His death prompted tributes across the political spectrum. Trevor Manuel, a former cabinet minister and close friend, described Lekota as an “amazing human being” who was “deeply committed” to South Africa’s development and democratic project.

Lekota’s legacy is intertwined with South Africa’s transition to democracy and the subsequent evolution of its opposition politics. His leadership in COPE represented a notable challenge to ANC dominance during its early years. The party now faces a period of reflection following the loss of its iconic founder, while the interim leadership under Loate is tasked with navigating its future direction. His passing marks the end of a career that was central to both provincial governance and national security policy in the country’s first two decades of freedom.