Tributes continue to pour in for the United Independent Movement (UIM)’s leader, Neil de Beer. De Beer died at the age of 56 on Saturday after he had been battling cancer in recent months
COURTESY: Facebook - UIMUIM was part of the Multiparty Charter Coalition that was
formed ahead of the 2024 elections, which included the DA, IFP, Freedom Front
Plus, ActionSA, among others.
De Beer was a military veteran, having served in the apartheid-era
defence force (SANDF), and later defected to the ANC's armed wing, Umkhonto
Wesizwe, where he served as an operative. He also served as security advisor to
former President Nelson Mandela.
He also served as a councillor in the City of Cape Town.
The UIM confirmed news of his passing on its official
social media pages.
"It is with profound sadness that we announce the
passing of our great leader and friend, Neil De Beer. Our hearts are heavy with
sorrow as we bid farewell to a truly remarkable soul, a friend whose kindness
touched every life, and a leader whose vision inspired us all," the
statement read.
DA leader, John Steenhuisen, paid tribute to de Beer and
described him as a powerful voice for change.
‘’With his uncompromising and often confrontational style,
he upset many, but he also spoke for many. His convictions and fearless
personality made him a force to be reckoned with and a valuable partner to the
Multi-Party Charter. For his role in bringing the Charter about, the DA will
remember him fondly.’’
ActionSA labeled de Beer as someone who was never afraid to
speak his mind.
‘’He was forthright in areas of agreement and equally
candid in expressing differences, a quality of honesty and fearlessness that
made him stand out and will remain a defining part of his legacy.’’
Done By: Mitchum George
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