The African National Congress has learned with sadness of the passing of Mr Mosioua Patrick Lekota, a former leader who served South Africa in various capacities during the pre and post democratic era. His passing marks the departure of a figure whose life intersected with important moments in the history of our country and the struggle for freedom

Popularly known as Terror among his peers and South Africans, his role spans many years from his youth, student days, the leadership of the United Democratic Front (UDF), an accused in the infamous Treason Trial which became the longest political trial in the aftermath of the Vaal Uprising in 1984. He became a member of the National Executive Committee (NEC) of the ANC, serving as the National Chairperson between 1997 and 2007. He served as the first Premier of the Free State province in the post-apartheid South Africa between 1994 and 1996, as Chairperson of NCOP between 1997 and 1999, later serving as the Minister of Defence from 1999-2008.

He later left the ANC to form the Congress of the People (COPE), serving as its President. Undeniably, Mr. Lekota played a sterling role in the demise of apartheid, leading to the dawn of democracy in 1994. History has in its annals a man committed to the lives of the people, their dignity and freedom. For his role in the liberation struggle he was arrested, prosecuted and sentenced to the Robben Island for a period of eight years.

He led in the South African Students’ Organisation (SASO) and served in the Black Consciousness Movement.

As we commemorate the 30th anniversary of the Constitution and the Human Rights Month, we state unequivocally that Mr. Lekota has an indelible footprint in these milestones, and regrettably, as a coincidence of history, passes on these significant calendar days of our rich history.

The ANC extends its condolences to the Lekota family, the liberation movement, the COPE and the people of South Africa on the passing of a compatriot who shaped the course of history. May his soul rest in peace.

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