Mosiuoa Lekota to be honoured at a memorial service in Bloemfontein

The late founder and leader of the Congress of the People (COPE), Mosiuoa Lekota, will be honoured at a memorial service in Bloemfontein on Thursday.

Lekota died last week after a prolonged illness.

He’s been remembered as a leader who did not hold grudges and deeply committed to the liberation of the oppressed.

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Thursday’s service will be held at the Bloemfontein Civic Centre at midday.

A husband, a father and a family man - this is how Lekota has been described by many who were close to him.

But his comrades, some of whom fought alongside him in the struggle against apartheid, remember him for sacrificing time with his family in the pursuit of freedom.

Reflections on his life are expected to be shared at his memorial service.

Speaking in Soweto on Wednesday, African National Congress (ANC) Deputy Secretary-General Nomvula Mokonyane reflected on Lekota’s life.

“He believed in democracy. He believed deeply in accountability. He believed that leaders must speak honestly - even when it is difficult.”

Lekota will be laid to rest on Saturday.