Influencer and reality TV star Lerato Makgatho, who claims to have been romantically involved with the late Tito Mboweni, has come forward to share her condolences following his passing. Mboweni, the former South African Minister of Finance, passed away after a brief illness, leaving behind three children. Makgatho’s public remarks have stirred controversy, as she recalled her past relationship with the political figure.
Lerato Makgatho, widely known for her appearances on reality television and as a podcaster, had previously made headlines after revealing details about a supposed “love triangle” involving Mboweni and Gwede Mantashe, the Minister of Mineral Resources. The claims initially surfaced in 2019, when Makgatho opened up about her experiences with both political heavyweights. At the time, she had spoken candidly about the nature of her relationship with Mboweni, stating that the two had dated nearly a decade ago.
In her recent statement following Mboweni’s death, Makgatho expressed her condolences and acknowledged their past relationship, yet again shedding light on their personal dynamic. Reflecting on her time with the former Minister of Finance, Makgatho claimed that she eventually ended the relationship due to Mboweni’s lack of excitement in the bedroom, an issue she had alluded to during previous interviews.
According to her, Mboweni’s reserved nature during their intimate moments contributed to her decision to part ways. “He was not a freak in bed,” Makgatho was quoted as saying, referring to what she saw as Mboweni’s conservative approach to their relationship. Despite these remarks, her recent tribute appeared to focus on more respectful aspects, acknowledging his contributions to the country and expressing sorrow for his passing.
Back in 2019, Makgatho’s revelations about the alleged love triangle became a subject of public fascination, particularly her comparisons between Mboweni and Mantashe. In her controversial interview with *Sunday World*, Makgatho had claimed that while Mantashe was generous with financial gifts, allegedly giving her between R10,000 and R15,000, Mboweni’s contributions were notably less, reportedly amounting to just R3,000 on occasion. These financial disparities were a key factor in her decision to end her relationship with Mboweni.
Makgatho also contrasted their intimate lives, stating that Mboweni preferred a more modest, private approach, insisting on turning off the lights and covering up during their time together. She contrasted this with her encounters with Mantashe, whom she described as more adventurous, even calling him a “tiger in bed.”
The resurfacing of these past comments in light of Mboweni’s death has sparked mixed reactions on social media, with some criticizing Makgatho for bringing up intimate details during a sensitive time. Others, however, have defended her right to speak about her personal experiences, even if those experiences involved public figures like Mboweni.
Tito Mboweni, who was known for his wit and outspoken personality in politics, leaves behind a complex legacy both professionally and personally. While many will remember him for his work in government and his leadership in the country’s financial matters, this recent controversy adds another dimension to the public’s understanding of his personal life.
As condolences continue to pour in for Mboweni’s family, the nation reflects on the life and times of one of its most prominent political figures, whose influence extended far beyond his role in the finance ministry.