By: Lonwabo Mtyeku | Pictures: Sourced – Polity.org.za
Seen Here: Mosiuoa “Terror” Lekota, veteran anti-apartheid activist and former South African defence minister, who has been honoured with a Special Official Funeral by President Cyril Ramaphosa in recognition of his contribution to the country’s liberation struggle and democratic governance. Photo Credit: Polity.org.za.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has declared that veteran anti-apartheid activist and former defence minister Mosiuoa “Terror” Lekota will be honoured with a Special Official Funeral Category 2, recognising his significant contribution to South Africa’s liberation struggle and democratic governance.
Lekota passed away on 4 March 2026 at the age of 77, following a period of illness. His death has prompted tributes from across the political spectrum, with leaders reflecting on his decades-long role in shaping the country’s political landscape.
The Presidency confirmed that the funeral service will be held on 14 March 2026 in Bloemfontein, where ceremonial elements will be provided by the South African Police Service in honour of the late statesman. National flags across the country will also be flown at half-mast from 7 March until the evening of the funeral as a mark of respect.
In a statement announcing the funeral arrangements, President Ramaphosa described Lekota as a committed patriot whose life reflected the sacrifices made by many South Africans in the pursuit of freedom and democracy. The President noted that Lekota’s leadership and dedication to public service left a lasting imprint on the country’s political development.
A Veteran of the Liberation Struggle
Born in the Free State, Lekota became involved in the anti-apartheid struggle at an early age. His political activism led to imprisonment by the apartheid government, including time spent on Robben Island alongside other liberation leaders.
Following the advent of democracy in 1994, Lekota held several influential positions in government. He served as Premier of the Free State before being appointed the first Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces, a role that placed him at the centre of South Africa’s emerging democratic parliamentary system.
In 1999, under the presidency of Thabo Mbeki, Lekota was appointed Minister of Defence, a position he held until 2008. During this period he oversaw the continued transformation of the country’s defence structures in the post-apartheid era.
A Voice in Opposition Politics
After internal political tensions within the African National Congress, Lekota became one of the founding leaders of the Congress of the People in 2008. The formation of the party marked a significant moment in South Africa’s democratic evolution, with Lekota emerging as one of the country’s prominent opposition voices.
Throughout his political career, Lekota remained widely respected for his commitment to constitutional democracy, principled leadership and his willingness to speak out on matters of governance and accountability.
National Reflection
As the country prepares to bid farewell to the veteran leader, tributes continue to pour in from political leaders, civil society organisations and ordinary citizens. Many have remembered Lekota as a principled public servant whose life journey mirrored South Africa’s broader struggle for freedom and justice.
His passing represents the loss of a generation of leaders who played a defining role in the transition from apartheid to democracy, leaving behind a legacy rooted in resilience, sacrifice and dedication to the ideals of a democratic South Africa.
