Winde defends US trip, says aimed at boosting ties

Western Cape Premier Alan Winde says his recent trip to the United States was aimed at protecting jobs and strengthening trade ties with one of the province's most important economic partners.

The ANC in the Western Cape legislature recently questioned the trip, saying residents deserve answers about the full purpose, cost and outcomes of the visit.

Last year, Winde was found in breach of the provincial legislature's code of conduct after failing to declare a sponsored economy-class flight to New York for Climate Week NYC in 2024.

The Premier maintained that the conduct committee’s finding was incorrect. This was upheld by the Western Cape Provincial Parliament (WCPP)’s appeal committee, with the finding against the Premier dismissed outright.

ANC opposition leader in the Western Cape, Khalid Sayed, recently called on Winde to disclose his itinerary -- who he met with and what commitments were sought on behalf of the province -- during his recent trip to the United States.