Lekota Estate Court Battle
Lekota’s Lover Fights Ruling She Drained Account While He Was Incapacitated
Introduction
The Lekota estate court battle has taken a new turn after the partner of the late COPE leader Mosiuoa “Terror” Lekota filed for leave to appeal a High Court ruling. The court previously found that she withdrew funds from his accounts while he was not of sound mind, a finding now strongly contested.
Court’s Original Findings
The Lekota estate court battle stems from a Gauteng High Court judgment that declared Lekota mentally incapacitated before his death in March 2026.
The court ruled that:
- Lekota could not manage his financial affairs
- His partner had accessed and withdrawn funds during this period
- These actions required explanation, which the court said was not provided
As a result, the judge concluded that the withdrawals were made without valid consent.
Millions Moved During Illness
The Lekota estate court battle revealed significant financial transactions linked to the case.
Evidence presented in court showed:
- Over R1 million transferred to the partner
- Additional payments of R600,000 described as household expenses
- A further R400,000 moved in a single day to attorneys and a company
The court described the timing of these transactions as highly suspicious, especially as legal proceedings about Lekota’s mental state were already underway.
Appeal Now Filed
The Lekota estate court battle has now entered a new phase. Lekota’s partner has filed an application for leave to appeal, arguing that the ruling was incorrect and should be reconsidered.
Her legal challenge seeks to overturn findings that she improperly drained the account while Lekota lacked capacity.
Family Dispute Intensifies
The Lekota estate court battle has also exposed a deeper conflict between Lekota’s estranged wife and his partner.
The dispute centres on:
- Control of the estate
- Access to finances
- The welfare of Lekota’s minor child
The court previously appointed a curator to manage the estate, highlighting concerns about protecting assets during the dispute.
Legal And Ethical Questions
The Lekota estate court battle raises critical legal issues around mental capacity and financial control.
Under South African law:
- A person deemed mentally unfit cannot give valid consent
- Transactions during such a period may be invalid
- Individuals managing finances must act in the person’s best interest
Therefore, the appeal could test how courts interpret responsibility in such cases.
What Happens Next
The court will now decide whether to grant leave to appeal in the Lekota estate court battle.
If approved:
- The case will move to a higher court
- Evidence may be re-examined
- The original findings could be overturned or upheld
Conclusion
The Lekota estate battle continues to unfold as one of the most complex legal disputes involving a senior political figure. While the High Court found that funds were withdrawn during a period of incapacity, the appeal now opens the door for a fresh legal review.
Ultimately, the case will determine not only financial accountability but also how the law protects vulnerable individuals in their final days.
