The uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MKP) says it has not been informed of any special security arrangements for private investigator Paul O’Sullivan ahead of his scheduled appearance before Parliament’s Ad Hoc Committee on Tuesday, despite assurances from the committee that adequate protection will be in place.
The committee is investigating allegations of corruption within the criminal justice system and has called O’Sullivan to testify on claims that he impersonated an official from the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) and allegedly participated in a task team that plotted against former National Police Commissioner Kgomotso Phahlane.
O’Sullivan had initially requested to appear virtually, citing concerns for his safety. However, the committee confirmed he will testify in person and has been guaranteed what it described as top-level security.
MKP committee member Sibonelo Nomvalo said, to his knowledge, no extraordinary measures have been introduced.
“As far as we know, the arrangements that have been made are the same arrangements that have always been available since we started doing the work of Parliament,” said Nomvalo. “There is security in Parliament, and our belief is that the standard will remain the same. Nothing has been presented suggesting a different approach.”
Nomvalo added that while the committee expects cooperation from all witnesses, it will not tolerate disruptive behaviour.
“Paul O’Sullivan is not the first witness we’re interviewing. We’ve had many witnesses. It will depend on his attitude. If he comes with arrogance, we will address it immediately. We’re not going to tolerate it,” he said.
Meanwhile, the African National Congress (ANC) has sought to reassure the public that O’Sullivan will be treated fairly. ANC Chief Whip and committee member Mdumiseni Ntuli said the process is focused on establishing facts rather than targeting individuals.
“When we invite someone to appear before us as a witness, we are not inviting someone we’ve already found guilty or an enemy of Parliament,” said Ntuli. “We are engaged in an exercise of searching for the truth to understand what is happening in the criminal justice system and determine what actions are needed to address the crisis.”
He added that O’Sullivan’s conduct during the proceedings would influence how members respond to him.
National Assembly Speaker Thoko Didiza welcomed confirmation that O’Sullivan will testify in person. She also noted ongoing efforts to secure the physical appearance of another witness, North West businessman Brown Mogotsi, who has asked to testify virtually due to safety concerns.
Parliamentary spokesperson Moloto Mothapo said the Speaker was encouraged that discussions had persuaded at least one witness to appear without the need for a summons.
“The issuing of a summons is a serious legal measure and must remain an act of last resort,” said Mothapo. “It cannot be invoked lightly without meeting strict legal requirements.”
The committee has indicated it will request a third extension to complete its work, having already been granted two. Its current deadline is February 20, following an original target of October last year.
Committee chairperson Soviet Lekganyane said scheduling pressures, including the opening of Parliament and the tabling of the national budget, have slowed progress.
“There is overwhelming agreement that we should seek an extension,” Lekganyane said. “We will write to the Speaker’s office to request more time so we can finalise our witness list and complete the report.”
Proceedings are expected to resume this week, with O’Sullivan’s testimony likely to be closely watched as the inquiry continues.