“South Africa has lost a patriot, a freedom fighter, and a servant of the people whose life story is closely intertwined with the country’s journey of struggle and the realisation of democracy,” said President Cyril Ramaphosa on Wednesday, as he expressed sadness at the passing of former Premier of the Free State and co-founder of the Congress of the People (COPE) Mosiuoa Lekota.

Lekota, 77, passed away in a Johannesburg hospital in the early hours of Wednesday morning after a prolonged battle with ill-health.

Ramaphosa described his life as one of resilience and courage, and said Lekota held a steadfast belief in justice.

“We honour him especially for his principled dedication to non-racialism during our struggle and in a liberated South Africa,” said Ramaphosa.

Lekota served as the first Premier of the Free State from 1994 until 1996 and as Minister of Defence from 1999 until 2008 under President Thabo Mbeki.

Lekota was also a long-serving member and national chairperson of the African National Congress (ANC).

Lekota was also instrumental in the establishment of the National Council of Provinces, which allows communities all over the country to be heard and represented in the national legislature.

In 2008, following Mbeki's ouster as ANC and State President Lekota left the ANC to co-found COPE with former fellow National Assembly member Mbhazima Shilowa.

Ramaphosa said Lekota’s establishment of COPE reflected his commitment to the values and principles by which he had lived.

“We will remember Mosiuoa for his patriotism, his intellect, and his personable nature, and we will continue to work for the inclusive, non-racial South Africa for which he sacrificed so much and worked so passionately,” Ramaphosa ended.

Democratic Alliance (DA) leader John Steenhuisen described Lekota as a patriot and a man of substance, saying his commitment to principled politics and his willingness to stand firm in defence of democratic values earned him respect across the political spectrum.

“One need not always have agreed with him to appreciate his dedication to our country's success. From his activism on the ground, to Robben Island, to democratic politics, he dedicated all he had to give to the service of the South African people,” he stated.

Steenhuisen pointed out that Lekota contributed immensely to the country’s democratic Parliament, and remained a steadfast advocate for constitutionalism, accountability, and the rule of law.

“This cost him more than many realise. He could have been a lifelong cadre, a beneficiary of rot and patronage. All he had to do was keep quiet. But he chose a different path, a more difficult one. He showed courage and inspired many, myself and many of my DA friends and colleagues included,” he said.

He highlighted that while he and Lekota may have differed at times on matters of policy and approach, they shared a common commitment to upholding the Constitution and strengthening the country’s democracy.

“South Africa has lost a seasoned leader whose voice and experience played an important role in shaping our country’s democratic discourse,” Steenhuisen said.

ANC national spokesperson Mahlengi Bhengu said Lekota's passing marked the departure of a figure whose life intersected with important moments in the history of South Africa and the struggle for freedom. 

In commemorating the thirtieth anniversary of the Constitution and Human Rights Month, the party stated that Lekota left an "indelible footprint" beside these milestones. 

GOOD Party leader Patricia de Lille extended her heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of Lekota.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the Lekota family and the members of COPE during this time of mourning. May his soul rest in peace,” she said.

Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) Chief Whip in the National Assembly Nhlanhla Hadebe said Lekota would be remembered for his “fearless” leadership during the struggle against apartheid, his dedication to constitutional democracy, and his sharp wit and sense of humour in Parliament.

“His presence in the National Assembly reflected both his depth of experience and his unwavering commitment to constitutional values. South Africa has lost a Statesman whose voice, insight, and historical perspective enriched our public discourse,” Hadebe said.

The party also recalled the period of principled collaboration between the IFP under the late Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi and COPE under Lekota, notably their joint legal action in the Cape High Court between 2011 and 2012, challenging the government’s refusal to grant a visa to the Dalai Lama, a moment, the party said, which reflected their shared commitment to constitutionalism, human rights, and moral leadership.

Parliamentary committee on International Relations and Cooperation chairperson Supra Mahumapelo said Lekota left behind a legacy of activism and service, noting that his name was synonymous with “courage, resilience and dedication” to South Africans. 

“A true patriot, Mr Lekota's legacy serves as a reminder of the importance of activism, public service and the ongoing pursuit of a better life for all. His impact will be felt for generations to come,” Mahumapelo said.