MK Party Criticizes Witnesses’ No-Show Over Security Claims

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uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MK Party) has disapproved of Paul O’Sullivan and Brown Mogotsi’s refusal to attend a parliamentary Ad Hoc Committee hearing, citing alleged security concerns.

The MK Party firmly asserts that the law applies equally to everyone, making it mandatory for all individuals lawfully summoned to the Parliamentary Ad Hoc Committee to comply without exception or special privilege.

National spokesperson Nhlamulo Ndhlela stated that the work of the ad hoc committee is conducted in the interests of national security and constitutional accountability.

“Any attempts to evade or delay this process under the guise of unsubstantiated security concerns will not be entertained,” he added.

Ndhlela said O’Sullivan presents a current security concern justification, which contrasts with his past actions involving threats and intimidation toward previous witnesses who testified before the committee.

He continued, “Mogotsi was offered adequate parliamentary security arrangements; however, he has since declined these services.

MK Party refuses demands

“We remain committed to the call to strengthen security measures surrounding the AdHoc Committee for both Members of Parliament and witnesses.

“However, we will not yield to unreasonable demands from individuals trying to obstruct, delay, or avoid proper parliamentary accountability processes.”

Meanwhile, ActionSA has urged parliament’s ad hoc committee to immediately finalise the appearance of Mogotsi and O’Sullivan, as current delays threaten to derail the committee’s work before the deadline.

ActionSA MP Dereleen James acknowledged the Speaker’s clarification on compelling witness appearances but noted the guidance was received too late in the process.

“The Speaker’s stance reveals a concerning absence of clear direction and coordination between Parliament’s leadership and the Ad Hoc Committee Chairperson regarding the thoroughness of exploring all possible options.

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“Unreasonable, unauthorised security conditions set by witnesses complicate appearances, but witness conduct is not solely to blame for the prolonged delay,” she remarked.

James stated that the chairperson of the committee bears equal responsibility for the lack of decisive action, as it is their duty to firmly, consistently, and promptly enforce parliamentary processes.