By 
The Free State Provincial Government (FSPG) has announced that the fallen former struggle icon and Premier of the province Mr Mosiuoa Gerard Patrick Lekota will receive a Special Official Funeral Category 2 on Saturday, 14 March 2026, in Bloemfontein.
The FSPG said the service will include ceremonial elements provided by the South African Police Service (SAPS) in honour of his contribution to the nation.
According to the provincial government, a Special Official Funeral Category 2 is reserved for distinguished individuals who have made significant contributions to the nation and are specifically designated by the President of South Africa.
“Mr Lekota, as former Minister of Defence, inaugural Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces, Premier of the Free State, and co-founder of the Congress of the People. President Cyril Ramaphosa declared that Lekota would receive a Special Official Funeral.
The President has also directed that the national flag be flown at half-mast at all flag stations across the country from 7 March until 14 March 2026,”said the Acting Chief Director for the Free State Provincial Government Communication Services Mr Setjhaba Maphalla.
The funeral will be held at the Old Grey Sports Ground, near the Tourism Centre in Bloemfontein, from 8am to 12pm.
A memorial service will also be held on Thursday, 12 March at the Bloemfontein City Hall from 12pm to 3pm South African time.
