Mosiuoa Lekota, a former defense minister and anti-apartheid activist in South Africa, died on March 4 at the age of 77 following an illness. He was best known for founding the Congress of the People (COPE) after leaving the African National Congress (ANC), where he had been a prominent and critical figure. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa honored Lekota, describing him as a 'fighter for freedom and servant of the people.'

Lekota's political career was marked by his unwavering commitment to anti-apartheid activities, including his imprisonment on Robben Island alongside Nelson Mandela. He was incarcerated from 1974 to 1982 for conspiracy and public order offenses, experiencing a second period of imprisonment from 1985 to 1989. His experiences during the struggle against apartheid shaped his political philosophy and approach as he later transitioned into leadership roles within the ANC before eventually forming his own party.

The death of Lekota represents a significant loss for South African politics, as he was a key figure in the fight for equality and justice in the country. His legacy will likely continue to influence discussions on democracy and governance in South Africa, especially among younger generations who look to understand the country's complex history. His contributions and critiques of the ANC may also provide reflections on the current political landscape, making his passing noteworthy beyond just his immediate party affiliation.