By: Matshidiso Selebeleng

South Africa is mourning the loss of Mosiuoa Gerard Patrick Lekota, the founder and leader of the Congress of the People (COPE), who passed away aged 77 on Tuesday following a period of illness. 

Affectionately known by his struggle moniker, ‘Terror’, Lekota was a formidable figure in the country’s political landscape for decades. 

Born on 13 August 1948, his journey as an activist saw him play a pivotal role in the fight against apartheid, leading to his imprisonment on Robben Island alongside global icon, Nelson Mandela.

 Lekota’s contribution to the liberation movement was profound, particularly through his involvement with the United Democratic Front (UDF). 

ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula has reflected on this legacy.

“Comrade Terror was instrumental in the formation and leadership of the United Democratic Front, which pushed for boycotts and sanctions, heeding the call from Lusaka to make Bothas apartheid South Africa ungovernable,” Mbalula posted on social media platform X.

Following the dawn of democracy, Lekota served with distinction in several high-ranking positions, including as the first Premier of the Free State, Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces (NCOP), and Minister of Defence for nearly a decade. 

During his tenure as Defence Minister, he significantly expanded South Africa’s peacekeeping footprint across the continent in alignment with the African Union’s agenda.

However, his political path took a dramatic turn in 2008 when he left the ANC following the recall of Thabo Mbeki. 

This led to the formation of COPE, marking a significant shift in the country's multi-party democracy. 

His passing marks the end of an era for a leader who remained a vocal participant in the national discourse until the very end.