Winde dismisses ANC's calls for commission of inquiry into George disaster
Western Cape Premier Alan Winde says there is already more than one investigation into the building collapse that killed 34 people earlier this month.
Seventy-five construction employees were on site when the multi-storey apartment complex collapsed in George on Monday 6 May 2024. Picture: Kayleen Morgan/Eyewitness News
CAPE TOWN - Western Cape Premier Alan Winde does not believe there is a need for a judicial commission of inquiry into the George disaster.
The premier says there is already more than one investigation into the building collapse that killed 34 people earlier this month.
He was responding to calls by the African National Congress (ANC) for him to set up a judicial inquiry as premier.
The labour department, police and an independent structural engineering firm appointed by the provincial government are all probing the cause of the tragedy, the country's worst-ever building disaster.
READ: Police investigations into George building collapse wrapped up, says WC top cop
"There are four inquiries... so that's going to be interesting to see if there's any difference in the four inquiries," said Winde.
Winde also dismissed allegations by the ANC's Cameron Dugmore that the companies involved in the collapsed building development were Democratic Alliance's (DA) funders.
"First of all, it's absolute rubbish, but I did go and check when he said it. And you know we have to keep a record and not one of those companies are donors to the DA," Winde said.
He accused the ANC of cheap politicking on the George disaster, saying those responsible would be held accountable.