Johannesburg – The leader of the Congress of the People (COPE), Mosiuoa Patrick “Terror” Lekota, has passed away at the age of 77.
COPE announced that its leader passed away earlier today, Wednesday, 4 March 2026, “after a period of illness”.
In a terse statement posted on X, Cope said: “The Lekota family has requested privacy during this difficult time, and the party asks that the public and media respect their wishes.”
The statement added: “On behalf of the leadership, membership, and supporters of COPE, we extend our deepest condolences to the Lekota family and all South Africans who mourn his loss”.
Lekota was a prominent South African anti-apartheid activist and politician.
Nicknamed “Terror” for his fierce soccer style, he joined the Black Consciousness Movement through the South African Students Organisation, leading to his 1974-1982 imprisonment on Robben Island.
Lekota co-founded the United Democratic Front in 1983 and endured the Delmas Treason Trial (1985-1988).
Aligning with the African National Congress (ANC), he served as Free State Premier (1994-1996), National Council of Provinces Chairperson (1997-1999), and Minister of Defence (1999-2008).
Disillusioned with ANC leadership, Lekota co-founded the Congress of the People (COPE) in 2008, leading it until his death.
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