Death of Mosiuoa Lekota
South Africa's former defence minister and anti-apartheid activist Mosiuoa Lekota has passed away at the age of 77.
He was a significant figure in the fight against apartheid and was incarcerated on Robben Island alongside former President Nelson Mandela.
Political Career and Contributions
Lekota was a prominent leader within the African National Congress (ANC) before departing to establish the Congress of the People (Cope), a rival political party. His departure was motivated by concerns over corruption allegations within the ANC, the party that has governed South Africa since 1994.
Cope announced his death following a "period of illness".
Tributes
President Cyril Ramaphosa honoured Lekota, describing him as a "freedom fighter and a servant of the people."
"His life was one of resilience, courage, and steadfast belief in justice," Ramaphosa said in a statement.
Ministerial and Leadership Roles
Lekota was among South Africa's longest-serving ministers, leading the defence ministry from 1998 to 2008.
He also held the position of ANC chairperson for ten years and was the inaugural premier of the Free State province following South Africa's transition to democracy in 1994.
Departure from ANC
Known by the nickname "Terror" for his football skills, Lekota left the ANC in 2008 shortly after the party removed former President Thabo Mbeki.
His exit was driven by dissatisfaction with the ANC's governance and increasing allegations of corruption among senior party officials.
Additional reporting by Pumza Fihlani in Johannesburg.
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