Glynnis Breytenbach has raised serious concerns about the potential risks surrounding the physical appearance of forensic investigator Paul O’Sullivan before Parliament’s Ad Hoc Committee, warning that lawmakers could be held responsible should any harm befall him.
Speaking during deliberations related to the committee’s work, the Democratic Alliance (DA) MP cautioned that compelling O’Sullivan to appear in person could expose him to grave danger, including the risk of assassination. Breytenbach argued that the committee must carefully consider the security implications of such a move and act responsibly in light of South Africa’s history of politically linked violence.
Her comments come amid growing tensions within the Ad Hoc Committee, where some members have called for Parliament to formally summon O’Sullivan following a series of disruptive virtual engagements. Critics have accused him of being disrespectful and undermining the authority of Parliament, prompting calls for stricter measures to ensure accountability.
However, Breytenbach warned that forcing a physical appearance without adequate safeguards could have dire consequences. She stated that if O’Sullivan were to be assassinated after being summoned to Parliament, the Ad Hoc Committee would have to bear responsibility for the outcome. According to her, such a scenario would not only be tragic but would also raise serious legal and moral questions about Parliament’s duty of care.
Breytenbach emphasised that Parliament has an obligation to protect individuals who engage with its processes, regardless of how contentious or uncomfortable their testimony may be. She suggested that alternative mechanisms, including secure virtual participation or written submissions, should be prioritised to avoid unnecessary risk.
The warning has sparked debate among committee members, with some insisting that Parliament must assert its authority and ensure compliance with its processes, while others agree that safety considerations cannot be ignored. The issue has highlighted broader concerns about witness protection, political intimidation and the limits of parliamentary power in a volatile environment.
As discussions continue, the Ad Hoc Committee faces mounting pressure to strike a balance between enforcing accountability and ensuring the safety of those who appear before it. Breytenbach’s remarks have added a new layer of urgency to the debate, underscoring the potentially severe consequences of decisions taken in the committee room.
