Bloemfontein: President Cyril Ramaphosa has declared that the late former Minister of Defence and leader of the Congress of the People (COPE), Mosiuoa Gerard Patrick Lekota, will be honoured with a Special Official Funeral Category 2 on Saturday, 14 March.
According to South African Government News Agency, Lekota, who served the nation as a struggle activist, inaugural Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces, Premier of the Free State, Minister of Defence, and co-founder of the Congress of the People, passed away on Wednesday, 4 March, at the age of 77. President Ramaphosa extends his condolences to the Lekota family, the Congress of the People, and Mr. Lekota's comrades and associates across the political spectrum.
President Ramaphosa described Lekota as a patriot, freedom fighter, and servant of the people, whose life story is closely intertwined with the journey of struggle and the realisation of democracy. He emphasized Lekota's dedication to non-racialism during the struggle and in a liberated South Africa.
Lekota's service to his home province as Premier and his role in national security as Minister of Defence were highlighted as significant contributions. President Ramaphosa has declared that Lekota will be accorded a Special Official Funeral Category 2, which will take place in Bloemfontein on 14 March. The funeral will include ceremonial elements provided by the South African Police Service.
The President has directed that the National Flag be flown at half-mast at all flag stations from Saturday, 7 March, until the evening of the funeral on 14 March.