Lekota family awaits presidency to finalise funeral category

Former COPE leader and Free State premier, Mosiuoa Lekota

The family of the late former Congress of the People (COPE) leader and Free State premier, Mosiuoa Lekota, says they are expecting delegates from the president’s office to finalise the category of funeral service to be given to the fallen struggle stalwart.

COPE leader, Teboho Loate, says they have received a provisional message from the president that Lekota could receive a state funeral.

Lekota’s body was transported to his home in Bloemfontein on Wednesday, after he passed away in a Johannesburg hospital.

As mourners from different parts of the country give their condolences to the Lekota family, some have described the late anti-apartheid activist as a fearless leader who was committed to the liberation struggle of the country.

Former President Thabo Mbeki on the passing of the former Defence Minister Mosiuoa Terror Lekota. #sabcnews

— Sophie Mokoena (@Sophie_Mokoena) March 6, 2026