South Africa has lost one of its steadfast sons of the liberation struggle with the passing of Mosiuoa Gerard Patrick “Terror” Lekota, a veteran anti-apartheid activist, former Minister of Defence and long-time political leader. Lekota passed away in the early hours of 04 March 2026 at a Johannesburg hospital at the age of 77, following a period of illness.

Born on 13 August 1948 in Kroonstad, Free State, Lekota grew up in a modest environment that shaped his strong political consciousness and lifelong commitment to justice and equality. As a young student, he became active in the South African Students’ Organisation (SASO) during the rise of the Black Consciousness Movement, an involvement that led to his expulsion from university and eventual confrontation with the apartheid regime.

His resistance activities led to his imprisonment on Robben Island in 1974, where he spent eight years alongside many leaders of the liberation struggle, including Nelson Mandela. Upon his release in 1982, Lekota returned to political activism and emerged as a leading figure in the United Democratic Front (UDF), a broad coalition that mobilised mass opposition to apartheid across the country.

Following South Africa’s transition to democracy in 1994, Lekota continued to play a significant role in shaping the country’s political institutions. He became the first Premier of the Free State Province (1994–1996) and later served as the inaugural Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces (1997–1999), helping establish the institution’s role in representing provincial interests in national governance.

In 1999, under President Thabo Mbeki, Lekota was appointed Minister of Defence, a position he held until 2008, overseeing the transformation and development of the South African National Defence Force during a critical period in the country’s democratic consolidation.

Later that year, amid political tensions within the ruling party, Lekota broke away from the African National Congress to co-found the Congress of the People (COPE), serving as its president from its formation in 2008 until his death in 2026. His decision reflected his outspoken views on governance, constitutionalism and accountability in public life.

The nickname “Terror”, by which he became widely known, originated from his youthful prowess on the soccer field rather than from politics. Friends and colleagues often described him as principled, fearless and deeply committed to the ideals of freedom and democratic governance.

Lekota is survived by his wife Cynthia, children and extended family, as well as generations of South Africans who benefited from the sacrifices of the liberation movement.

President Cyril Ramaphosa announced that Lekota would receive a Special Official Funeral, recognising his lifelong contribution to the struggle for freedom and to democratic South Africa.

Mosiuoa “Terror” Lekota’s life was defined by courage, resilience and a steadfast commitment to the values of justice and democracy. From the prison cells of Robben Island to the highest offices of government, he remained a prominent voice in South Africa’s political journey and a figure whose legacy will continue to shape the nation’s history.