Parliament’s legal advisers are set to issue a formal written request to forensic investigator Paul O'Sullivan, asking him to return to the Ad Hoc Committee after he walked out of proceedings before completing his testimony.
O’Sullivan exited a parliamentary session on Thursday while still under questioning, reportedly telling members he had a flight to catch.
Chairperson of the South African Police Service Ad Hoc Committee, Soviet Lekganyane, told MPs that the committee must first show that reasonable steps were taken to secure O’Sullivan’s voluntary return before considering stronger legal measures, including a subpoena.
Meanwhile, the Economic Freedom Fighters has indicated it will open a criminal case of contempt against O’Sullivan. The party argues that his refusal to continue testifying contravenes the Powers and Privileges Act governing parliamentary proceedings.
The EFF has called for his immediate arrest and urged authorities at OR Tambo International Airport to prevent him from leaving the country.
The party has also appealed to Thoko Didiza, Speaker of the National Assembly, to lay formal charges.
The matter is expected to return to the committee as lawmakers weigh their next steps.