Calls for legal action against O'Sullivan after his walkout

PARLIAMENT is facing a significant challenge as it contemplates action against forensic fraud examiner Paul O'Sullivan, who left abruptly during his testimony before the Ad Hoc Committee investigating allegations made by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi.

- MAYIBONGW MAQHINA

MPs want forensic fraud examiner Paul O'Sullivan to return and complete his evidence before the Ad Hoc Committee.

(ARMAND HOUGH)

The incident has sparked a unanimous demand from various political parties for O'Sullivan to return and complete his evidence, with some MPs calling for his arrest and contempt charges for undermining the committee’s authority.

The tension escalated during O'Sullivan’s second appearance, when he walked out of the hearing after requesting to leave, primarily to catch a flight.

While evidence leader Advocate Bongiwe Mkhize was in the midst of questioning him, O’Sullivan’s abrupt departure provoked outrage among committee members.

In a break shortly after his exit, MPs insisted that parliamentary legal services should prepare legal advice on the situation.

Legal advisor Andile Tetyana said there were still certain people he needed to consult first.

“We just want to get the facts right before we give the advice, and we can give the committee something no later than tomorrow in writing,” said Tetyana.

However, the response did little to satisfy members, who felt the matter required urgent attention.

ActionSA MP Dereleen James could not understand what consultation was needed for.

“The entire country has been watching how Mr Paul O'Sullivan has been undermining the work of this committee since day one, before he even appeared before us, sending us threats, calling us names. What are we going to consult about at this point?” she asked.