💨 Abstract

Congress of the People (COPE) announced the death of its leader and co-founder, Mosiuoa Lekota, on March 4, 2026, at age 77 after a long illness. Lekota, who previously served as South Africa's Minister of Defence and Premier of the Free State, stepped back from politics last year to focus on his health. COPE expressed sadness and requested privacy for the Lekota family.

Courtesy: Nobantu Cala