Western Cape Premier Alan Winde is facing mounting pressure from opposition parties demanding action in light of allegations that Western Cape infrastructure MEC Tertius Simmers is collecting rent from an investment property near his workplace while benefiting from a state-funded residence intended for those living further away.

Simmers is accused of violating housing benefit guidelines by renting a property 11km away from his workplace while he was entitled to R9,975 per month for living 50km from Cape Town. Simmers has denied the allegations, stating that his primary residence is located around 450km away in the Garden Route, and the Cape Town properties were solely for investment purposes.

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In response to the controversy, Unathi Ntame, the EFF provincial chairperson, called for Simmers' suspension and an expedited investigation, emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability.

Khalid Sayed, the ANC spokesperson, pointed out Simmers' prior electricity theft allegations and criticized the DA's ethical stance, asserting that the Premier must take decisive action.

Premier Alan Winde's office stated that he had no additional comments beyond Simmers' remarks on the matter at this stage.

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