South Africa mourns passing of COPE founder

South Africa’s political landscape is in mourning following the passing of Mosiuoa “Terror” Lekota, the founding president of the Congress of the People (COPE) party.

Lekota, a veteran of the anti-apartheid struggle, passed away on March 4, 2026 at the age of 77 after a period of illness.

His death was met with an outpouring of tributes from across the political spectrum.

COPE confirmed Lekota’s passing in a statement, expressing “deep sadness” and asking the public and media to respect the privacy of the Lekota family during this difficult time.

The party said it would provide regular updates on memorial arrangements and tributes.

President Cyril Ramaphosa said he was “profoundly saddened” by Lekota’s death, extending his thoughts and prayers to the family, COPE, and Lekota’s associates across the political landscape.

The Azanian People’s Organisation (AZAPO) also paid tribute, with secretary Nosipiwo Manona saying AZAPO “salutes the gallant role he played in his early life and the contribution he made to the course of liberating in our country.” The organisation wished that “his soul find eternal peace.”

The Democratic Alliance (DA) leader John Steenhuisen noted Lekota’s passing with “deep sadness,” describing him as a “patriot and a man of substance” who had earned respect across the political spectrum for his “commitment to principled politics.”

Former COPE deputy leader Willie Madisha praised Lekota as a leader who “never compromised his principles,” while the Truth and Solidarity Movement (TSM) hailed him as a “fearless freedom fighter” and “voice of conscience” whose life was “deeply intertwined with the nation’s struggle for liberation and democracy.”

The African Congress for Transformation (ACT) also extended its “sincere condolences” to Lekota’s family, friends, and comrades, honouring his “contribution to the struggle for freedom and his service to South Africa.”

As the political world mourns Lekota’s passing, his legacy as a principled and dedicated public servant is set to continue inspiring South Africans in the years to come.