COPE leader Mosiuoa Lekota will be laid to rest in Bloemfontein on Saturday. It is a somber day for the nation as we say goodbye to a great leader, a true patriot, and a fearless advocate for justice and equality.
Lekota was a man of integrity, who dedicated his life to serving his country and his people. His unwavering commitment to the struggle against apartheid and his tireless efforts in building a democratic South Africa will never be forgotten.
Born in Kroonstad, Free State, in 1948, Lekota joined the liberation movement at a young age. He was a founding member of the Congress of South African Students (COSAS) and was actively involved in student protests against the oppressive apartheid regime. In 1974, he joined the Black People’s Convention (BPC) and later became a member of the United Democratic Front (UDF) in 1983.
Lekota’s bravery and dedication to the cause did not go unnoticed. In 1984, he was arrested and detained without trial for his anti-apartheid activities. However, even in the face of adversity, he remained resolute and continued to fight for the freedom of his people.
After the unbanning of political parties in 1990, Lekota joined the African National Congress (ANC) and became a member of the first democratically elected parliament in 1994. He served as the Minister of Defence and later as the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans. During his time as a government minister, Lekota played a crucial role in the integration of the different armed forces into the South African National Defence Force (SANDF).
In 2008, Lekota made a bold decision to leave the ANC and form the Congress of the People (COPE). He believed that the ANC had lost its way and that it was no longer the party of the people. Lekota was determined to create a new political home for those who shared his vision of a truly democratic and non-racial South Africa.
As the leader of COPE, Lekota continued to champion the values of democracy, justice, and equality. He was a fierce critic of corruption and maladministration, and he always put the interests of the people first. His unwavering stance against corruption and his calls for accountability earned him the respect and admiration of many South Africans.
Lekota’s leadership and guidance were crucial in maintaining COPE’s relevance in the ever-changing political landscape of South Africa. Despite challenges and setbacks, he remained steadfast in his mission to build a better future for all South Africans.
As we gather to pay our last respects to this great leader, let us also celebrate his life and legacy. Lekota’s unwavering dedication to the struggle for freedom and his unwavering commitment to the values of democracy will continue to inspire us all.
His funeral, which will take place in Bloemfontein, will be a fitting tribute to a man who dedicated his life to fighting for the rights and freedoms of his fellow South Africans. It is a testament to the impact he had on the lives of so many people and the respect and admiration he earned from all who knew him.
In his memory, let us continue his fight for a better, fairer, and more just society. Lekota may be gone, but his legacy will live on in the hearts and minds of all who were touched by his life and his leadership.
Rest in peace, comrade Mosiuoa Lekota. Your contribution to our nation will never be forgotten.
