Ernst Bakker, Dutch politician (d. 2014)
Ernst Carel Bakker, a distinguished Dutch politician, was a dedicated and influential member of the progressive Democrats 66 (D66) political party. Born on April 16, 1946, his career spanned both national and local governance, leaving a significant mark on the political landscape of the Netherlands until his passing on February 8, 2014, at the age of 67.
A Career in Public Service
Bakker's journey in public service began on the national stage. From 1981 to 1982, he served as a respected member of the House of Representatives, the lower house of the Dutch parliament. During this period, he actively contributed to national policy-making and legislative processes, engaging in debates that shaped the country's direction.
Following his tenure in national politics, Bakker transitioned his focus to municipal governance within the vibrant city of Amsterdam. In 1990, he joined the Amsterdam City Council, becoming an active and vocal participant in the city's democratic body. His commitment and leadership qualities were quickly recognized, leading to his appointment as a city alderman (wethouder in Dutch) beginning in 1992. In this executive role, akin to a municipal cabinet member, he held specific portfolio responsibilities, playing a crucial part in the day-to-day administration and policy implementation for one of Europe's most dynamic capitals.
Mayor of Hilversum
A pivotal chapter in Ernst Carel Bakker's career unfolded in 1998 when he relocated to Hilversum, a municipality often recognized as the 'media city' of the Netherlands due to its prominent broadcasting industry. Here, he took on the esteemed and pivotal role of Mayor (burgemeester), a position he held with considerable distinction for over a decade. In the Dutch system, the mayor is an essential figure, appointed by the Crown, who presides over both the municipal council and the executive board, acting as a neutral figurehead and ensuring stability and good governance. Bakker served Hilversum diligently in this capacity until his well-deserved retirement in 2011, having guided the city through numerous developments and challenges.
Passing and Legacy
Ernst Carel Bakker passed away in Hilversum on February 8, 2014, at the age of 67. His extensive career, marked by dedicated service from the national parliament to the highest executive role in a significant Dutch municipality, exemplifies a profound commitment to public administration and the democratic process within the Netherlands.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What political party was Ernst Carel Bakker affiliated with?
- Ernst Carel Bakker was a member of the Democrats 66 (D66) political party, known for its progressive and social-liberal stance in Dutch politics.
- What was Ernst Carel Bakker's role in national politics?
- He served as a member of the House of Representatives, the lower house of the Dutch parliament, from 1981 to 1982.
- What is an "alderman" in the Dutch political system?
- An alderman (wethouder) in the Dutch system is a member of the executive board of a municipality, holding specific portfolio responsibilities and functioning much like a municipal cabinet member, responsible for daily administration and policy implementation.
- How long was Ernst Carel Bakker Mayor of Hilversum?
- Ernst Carel Bakker served as the Mayor of Hilversum from 1998 until his retirement in 2011, holding the position for 13 years.
- When and where did Ernst Carel Bakker die?
- Ernst Carel Bakker died on February 8, 2014, in Hilversum, at the age of 67.