Eastern Cape Premier, Lubabalo Oscar Mabuyane, has expressed his heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of former Safety and Security MEC, Dennis Neer, who passed away on Friday after a long illness.
Neer was appointed as an MEC after the democratic elections in 1994 and was reappointed as an MEC after the 1999 elections and served in the Department of Safety, Liaison and Transport.
Mabuyane described Neer as a dedicated public servant who spent his life serving the people of the Eastern Cape.
The Premier highlighted that during his tenure as MEC, Neer was one of the driving forces in government that worked tirelessly to ensure the amalgamation of the various government administrations that existed in the province before democracy.
“Having been charged with a very sensitive responsibility of safety and security, he presided over the sector and focused on building trust between the previously disadvantaged and marginalised members of our society and law enforcement agencies, improving the safety and well-being of all the province's residents,” Mabuyane said.
He noted Neer’s efforts to combat crime, promote community policing, and support victims of crime.
"Dennis was a true patriot who stayed true to his calling and left an indelible mark in the provincial administration. We want to convey our deepest condolences to the family. As a member of the Provincial Executive Council, Neer played a crucial role in shaping the province's safety and security agenda.
“His passion for community development and commitment to serving the people of the Eastern Cape were evident in everything he did. Dennis Neer's commitment to community safety and liaison will always be remembered, and his legacy will continue to inspire us to work towards a safer and more secure communities, where our people can live without fear of crime," the Premier said. – SAnews.gov.za
