By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
The controversial Forensic investigator Paul O’Sullivan is set to appear before the parliament’s ad hoc committee investigating the infiltration in the criminal justice system on Tuesday.
O’Sullivan was due to appear before the committee last week, but did not, citing serious security concerns.
Parliament’s ad hoc committee probing criminality, political interference and corruption within the justice system intensified calls for O’Sullivan to appear before it in person.
Chairperson of the Ad Hoc Committee, Soviet Lekganyane, has confirmed that O’Sullivan will appear physically before the committee tomorrow and Wednesday.
“This week, honourable members, we only have two days, and we have one witness who is appearing tomorrow and Wednesday, and the witness is appearing physically.”
Lekganyane added that comprehensive security arrangements had been made to ensure the investigator’s safety.
The forensic investigator is accused of having too much influence in the criminal justice system.
In his affidavit, O Sullivan denied the allegations.
“I formally deny the false and defamatory allegations levelled against me by General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi and request evidence of his outlandish claims through this committee, as well as his conduct in inciting violence in the form of telling parliament that if they do not take action against me, the men and women of the country will take drastic action themselves.”
Parliament speaker Thoko Didiza has welcomed the resolution on O’Sullivan’s appearance without the need to issue a summons.
Didiza said she was pleased that O’ Sullivan will be available to appear in person before the Ad Hoc Committee to testify from Tuesday, without being summoned.
“The speaker understands that engagements are continuing with another witness, Brian Mogotsi. Should further engagement not yield the necessary outcome, the Speaker will be advised by the Ad Hoc Committee so that the issuing of a summons may be considered,” Parliament spokesperson Moloto Mothapo said.
“The issuing of a summons is a serious legal measure and must remain an act of last resort. It cannot be invoked lightly or without meeting the strict legal requirements prescribed by law. Issuing summonses prematurely or without proper procedural grounding risks undermining the credibility of Parliament’s processes and exposing them to avoidable judicial review.”
Last week, Didiza informed the committee that it didn’t provide her with evidence that it had duly considered O’Sullivan’s request to appear virtually.
The Ad Hoc Committee was established under National Assembly Rule 253 to investigate allegations made by Mkhwanazi. It was granted an extension until 20 February to conclude its work.