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South African Struggle Icon and COPE Founder Mosiuoa Lekota Dies

Former Congress of the People (COPE) leader and liberation struggle veteran Mosiuoa Lekota has died. He was 77. 

Lekota, who stepped away from politics in 2025, had been struggling with his health. In a statement, Cope leader Teboho Loate confirmed his passing "after a period of illness". The Lekota family has requested privacy for the family. Loate said that memorial details would be announced in due course.

Lekota was a former Robben Island prisoner. He played a key role in the formation of the United Democratic Front. He was an African National Congress chairperson under Thabo Mbeki between 2002 and 2007 before leaving the party after Jacob Zuma rose to power. He formed Cope in 2008.

COPE

Congress of the People leader Mosiuoa Lekota.

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