Opposition Demands Release of George Building Collapse Report Amid Delays

Pressure is mounting on the Western Cape government to release the expert report into the George building collapse, nearly a year after the tragic incident claimed 34 lives.

The five-storey structure, known as 75 Victoria, collapsed while still under construction on 6 May 2023, in one of the province’s worst construction disasters in recent memory.

Despite an independent structural engineering firm being commissioned to investigate the cause of the collapse, opposition parties are questioning the continued delay in making the report public. The report, commissioned by the provincial government, remains under wraps.

George Building Collapse Updates

At a briefing on Friday to the Western Cape Legislature’s Standing Committee on Infrastructure, various stakeholders presented updates on the collapse. However, the central concern remained: why has the expert report not been released?

Last month, Human Settlements Minister Thembi Simelane revealed the findings of the National Home Builders Regulatory Council (NHBRC) investigation, which concluded that the building had not been properly registered before construction began.

Western Cape Infrastructure MEC Tertuis Simmers stated that the provincial report is currently with the police, as it forms part of a broader criminal investigation.

“We must respect the rule of law. Until the NPA [National Prosecuting Authority] completes its process, the report cannot be shared publicly,” said Simmers. “Once there is clarity on whether the case proceeds to court, the premier will honour his commitment to transparency.”

But opposition leaders remain unconvinced.

ANC MPL Khalid Sayed criticized the explanation, pointing out that the national minister has already publicly accounted for the findings of the NHBRC investigation.

“The public deserves answers. The delay creates the perception of a cover-up,” said Sayed.

GOOD Party MPL Brett Herron called for stronger measures, suggesting the committee invoke Section 115 of the Constitution, which gives it the power to summon individuals — including Premier Alan Winde — to testify or produce documents.

“The committee must consider summoning the premier to ensure this report is made available to the public,” said Herron.

As the one-year mark approaches, families of the victims and the broader public are demanding accountability, transparency, and justice.

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