CAPE TOWN – Forensic investigator Paul O’Sullivan walked out of Parliament’s ad hoc committee on Wednesday before completing his testimony, leaving members in shock after he said he needed to catch a flight.
The committee is investigating allegations made by South African Police Service KwaZulu-Natal provincial commissioner Lt Gen Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi against Police Minister Senzo Mchunu. Mkhwanazi has alleged that Mchunu illegally ordered the disbandment of the Political Killings Task Team and interfered in SAPS investigations.
O’Sullivan’s appearance had previously been postponed after he fell ill. He was still under questioning by the evidence leader when a heated exchange broke out over his request to ask questions.
He then said he could not continue with his testimony because he needed to leave for his flight.
MK Party MP David Skosana and EFF leader Julius Malema confronted O’Sullivan over his departure, noting that he had not been formally excused by the committee.
“I am finished,” O’Sullivan said as he walked out in response to Skosana.
O’Sullivan packed his laptop and documents and left the venue, prompting dissatisfaction among MPs who said he had not finished answering questions.
Chairperson Soviet Lekganyane thanked members for restraining themselves, acknowledging that the situation could provoke strong emotions. He said the committee would seek advice from Parliamentary Legal Services following the witness’s departure.
The committee adjourned briefly and was expected to continue with testimony from former national police commissioner Kgomotso Phahlane.
This is a developing story.
