Forensic investigator Paul O’Sullivan abruptly walked out of a parliamentary Ad Hoc Committee session on Thursday, February 26, 2026, before concluding his testimony, sparking heated exchanges and concerns over potential contempt of Parliament.
O’Sullivan, who appeared voluntarily to provide evidence in the committee’s probe into allegations of interference in the criminal justice system and related police matters, declared he had reached his limit during proceedings. In response to suggestions that evidence was being tailored against him, he stated: “If General Khumalo wants to tailor evidence to point in that direction, let him also tailor the evidence showing what crimes it is I’m alleged to have committed because absolutely I have not been involved in any crime syndicates of any nature whatsoever.”
He then announced his departure, saying: “Unfortunately, I have reached a point now chairman where I have to go.” Committee members strongly objected, with voices insisting he could not leave without being released. One member warned: “He’s not going to leave until you release him. He’s walking out of parliament.” Others threatened consequences, stating: “You must be arrested. We’ll open a case now.” Another added: “This man must not be allowed to walk out of this.”
O’Sullivan maintained his position, replying: “I did not come here on a summons. I came here of my own free will and I’m leaving.” Amid overlapping objections and attempts to prevent his exit, he departed the hearing.
Parliamentary Spokesperson Moloto Mothapo later addressed the incident, conveying the Speaker’s deep concern over the developments. Mothapo emphasized that the Speaker views the conduct as highly troubling, particularly as it was broadcast publicly, potentially undermining public respect for Parliament’s work.
He referenced the Powers and Privileges Act, which governs parliamentary proceedings and prohibits improper interference or impediment of Parliament or its committees’ functions. Such actions, Mothapo noted, constitute a breach of the Act and the National Assembly’s rules.
The Speaker has requested a formal, detailed report from the Ad Hoc Committee’s chairperson outlining the events, including the circumstances of O’Sullivan’s departure. Mothapo clarified that while the chairperson provided an informal briefing, the Speaker requires an official document representing the committee’s collective views—not informal discussions or individual party positions—to properly assess the matter.
In response to a letter from the EFF urging the Speaker to lay a charge of contempt of Parliament against O’Sullivan as the authority responsible for protecting Parliament’s dignity, Mothapo stated that the Speaker respects input from political parties but will act based on the committee’s official report. The EFF’s correspondence will be considered, but decisions on any breach will follow review of the full committee position.
The incident has raised questions about precedents for witness conduct in parliamentary inquiries and the enforcement of oversight authority. The Speaker is expected to review the forthcoming report to determine any necessary actions under the relevant laws and rules to uphold parliamentary integrity.