Various organisations and individuals from all walks of life have been paying their respects to the late struggle stalwart, Mosiuoa Lekota, by visiting his home in Bloemfontein. The former ANC activist and leader of the Congress of the People (COPE) passed away on October 22, 2021, at the age of 73 after a long battle with illness.
Lekota’s passing has left a void in the hearts of many South Africans, who remember him as a fearless and dedicated leader who fought tirelessly for the liberation of our country. His contribution to the struggle against apartheid and his unwavering commitment to democracy and human rights will never be forgotten.
Since his passing, various organisations and individuals have been making their way to Lekota’s home to pay their respects and honor his legacy. These visits have not only been a way to show support to his family and loved ones but also a way to celebrate his life and the impact he had on our nation.
One of the first organisations to visit Lekota’s home was the African National Congress (ANC), the party he dedicated most of his life to. ANC Secretary-General, Ace Magashule, led a delegation of party members to pay their respects and offer condolences to Lekota’s family. In a statement, Magashule said, “We have lost a revolutionary, a leader, and a comrade who dedicated his life to the struggle for freedom and democracy in our country.”
The ANC was followed by the Congress of the People (COPE), the party that Lekota founded in 2008 after breaking away from the ANC. COPE’s President, Mosiuoa Lekota, described the late leader as a “giant of our struggle” and a “true patriot.” He also praised Lekota’s unwavering commitment to democracy and his fight against corruption.
The EFF (Economic Freedom Fighters) also paid their respects to Lekota, with party leader, Julius Malema, describing him as a “giant of our struggle” and a “true patriot.” Malema also acknowledged Lekota’s contribution to the formation of the EFF, stating that “without his guidance and wisdom, we would not be where we are today.”
Apart from political parties, various civil society organisations and community leaders have also visited Lekota’s home. These include the South African Council of Churches (SACC), the National Religious Leaders Council (NRLC), and the National Interfaith Council of South Africa (NICSA). These organisations have praised Lekota for his role in promoting social justice and unity among different religious and cultural groups.
Lekota’s family has expressed their gratitude for the outpouring of love and support they have received from all these organisations and individuals. They have also thanked the public for respecting their privacy during this difficult time.
The visits to Lekota’s home have not only been a way to pay respects to a great leader but also a way to reflect on his legacy and the values he stood for. Lekota’s unwavering commitment to democracy, social justice, and human rights will continue to inspire generations to come.
As we mourn the loss of a great leader, let us also celebrate the life of Mosiuoa Lekota and the impact he had on our nation. Let us continue to honor his legacy by working towards a more just and equal society, just as he did throughout his life. May his soul rest in peace.
