Ramaphosa describes late COPE leader Lekota as a devoted patriot

President Cyril Ramaphosa has described the late Congress of the People (COPE) leader Mosiuoa Lekota as a devoted patriot.

Lekota died in the early hours of Wednesday morning after a long battle with cancer.

ALSO READ:

From freedom fighter to political leader: The life of Mosiuoa Lekota

Trevor Manuel remembers Mosiuoa Lekota as ‘amazing human being’

He had recently stepped back from active politics to focus on his health, following repeated hospital visits.

During some of his final years as a member of Parliament (MP), Lekota repeatedly expressed his dissatisfaction with his former African National Congress (ANC) colleague and president, Cyril Ramaphosa.

He went as far as accusing Ramaphosa of selling him out just before his detention at Robben Island in the 1970s.

“When it was difficult, you wrote to the special branch that we put communist ideas in your head. In doing so, you condemned us to the special branch. The special branch rewarded you, as they always reward their victims, and they sent you home.

“We headed to Robben Island. We should have travelled together to Robben Island to serve years for the struggle of our people. I thank you, I’m grateful you are a billionaire, but you may keep them,” Lekota once said.

Despite this, Ramaphosa paid homage to Lekota, noting that his life was one of courage and resilience.

He added that Lekota will be remembered for his patriotism, intellect and warm, personable nature.