Tag Archives: Republic of South Africa (RSA) president

Former Minister accorded special official funeral  

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Picture: Former COPE leader, the late Mosiuoa Lekota

By AGISANANG SCUFF

8 March 2026- Republic of South Africa (RSA) president, Cyril Ramaphosa has declared that the late former Minister of Defence and leader of the Congress of the People (COPE), Mosiuoa Terror Lekota will be honoured with a Special Official Funeral Category 2 on 14 March 2026. 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 (COPE), passed away on 4 March 2026, at the age of 77.

Ramaphosa reiterates his deep condolences to the Lekota family, the COPE and Lekota’s comrades and associates across the political spectrum. He has paid tribute to Lekota as “a patriot, freedom fighter, and servant of the people whose life story is closely intertwined with their journey of struggle and the realisation of democracy.

“We honour him especially for his principled dedication to non-racialism during our struggle and in a liberated South Africa. We deeply value his service to his home province, where he served as Premier and to our Armed Forces and our national security, in his role as Minister of Defence.

“Reflecting the nation’s appreciation, we have declared that Lekota will be accorded a Special Official Funeral Category 2 which will take place in Bloemfontein on Saturday, 14 March 2026,” said Ramaphosa.

He said the funeral will feature ceremonial elements provided by the South African Police Service (SAPS). Ramaphosa has directed that the National Flag be flown at half-mast at all flag stations from 7 until 14 March 2026.

The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on International Relations and Cooperation, Supra Mahumapelo sent his condolences to the family, friends and members of the COPE party on the passing of Lekota. Mahumapelo said Lekota has left behind a legacy of activism and service.

“His name is synonymous with courage, resilience and dedication to the people of South Africa. As a veteran of the anti-apartheid struggle, Lekota’s life has been a testament to the power of conviction and the pursuit of justice.

“His contributions to the fight against apartheid, including his time on Robben Island, are a testament to his unshakeable resolve. As a leader, Lekota has inspired countless individuals to join the struggle for freedom and equality,” he said.

He said Lekota showed the ability to serve and lead with integrity. Mahumapelo said he also served on the Portfolio Committee of International Relations and Cooperation with diligence and commitment.

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Ramaphosa: “Your vote is important and it counts” 

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Picture: The RSA president, Cyril Ramaphosa

By OBAKENG MAJE 

The Republic of South Africa (RSA) president, Cyril Ramaphosa said on 29 May 2024, the country will hold elections for national and provincial government. He said many of them remember the historic Election Day in 1994, when they voted for the very first time for a democratic government of their choice.

“We all remember how we felt as we stood in long queues patiently waiting to cast our vote for a government of our choice. As we cast our votes, we were mindful of the weight of history. 

“We were mindful of the fact that so many people had struggled and sacrificed for this right to vote and many had lost their lives in the cause of freedom. The right to vote has been the cornerstone of our democratic order and is enshrined in the Bill of Rights of our constitution,” he said.

Ramaphosa further as the people cast their ballot, firstly through special vote on 27 and 28 May 2024, and many of them on 29 May 2024, they will be demonstrating their faith in the democratic order. He added that, by placing their crosses on the ballot papers, they will be executing a responsibility that history has placed on their shoulders.  

“Most importantly, you will be deciding for yourself the direction that our country should take and determining the path that we should follow to get there. By voting, you are taking responsibility for your future and the future of your community. 

“Your vote is important and it counts. As the election campaigns have unfolded, we have shown that we are a diverse, tolerant, and free society where different views can be heard and are respected. Let us continue in this way and all work together to ensure that we have an election that is free, fair, and peaceful. I call upon you to go and vote,” he said.

Meanwhile, the National Joint Operations and Intelligence Structure (Natjoints) Co-Chair, Lieutenant General Tebello Mosikili said: “We are confident that the measures that have been put in place are sufficient to ensure that the country’s upcoming general elections proceed without any incidents of crime and disruptions.

“Having conducted a national security assessment with key role players in the Justice, Crime Prevention and Security Cluster, we are satisfied with the operational plan that is currently being implemented, and can assure South Africans that a conducive environment for a peaceful election has been prepared.”

Mosikili said while measures have been put in place, the ultimate responsibility of a safe and secure election lies with each one of them. She said it is a partnership that is required to create harmony, respect for self and others even as we make our way to the polls and back home.

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