Lekota remembered as fearless defender of democracy

Yesterday, it was former Cabinet minister Mosiuoa Patrick “Terror” Lekota who died. He was 77. Lekota drew tributes from across the spectrum, with the overarching message being that he leaves an unquestionable legacy of unbroken struggle against apartheid and an immense contribution to the country’s democratic dispensation.

His death closes a chapter on a generation of leaders who bridged the liberation struggle and democratic governance. He had not been seen in public for a long time due to an undisclosed illness which, for some time, did not deter him from participating in political life as president of the Congress of the People and a member of parliament for the party. His political roots were initially in the Black Consciousness Movement, particularly the South African Students Organisation (Saso) and, later, the ANC.

He then rose to prominence as one of the leaders of the United Democratic Front (UDF), which was regarded as an internal wing of the ANC. President Cyril Ramaphosa said: “South Africa has lost a patriot, a freedom fighter and a servant of the people whose life story is closely intertwined with our journey of struggle and the realisation of democracy. “His life was one of resilience, courage and a steadfast belief in justice.” The president acknowledged Lekota’s “instrumental role” in the formation of the National Council of Provinces (NCOP), ensuring communities countrywide were heard and represented in the national legislature.

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Born on 13 August, 1948 in Kroonstad, Lekota did his primary education at Susanna Farm School before attending Mariazell High in Matatiele. He enrolled in a private school, St Francis College in Mariannhill in 1969, where he obtained his matric.

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