O’Sullivan clashes with committee over pre-1990 testimony ban

Forensic analyst Paul O’Sullivan has clashed with members of Parliament’s ad hoc committee over his condition that MPs do not question him about events occurring before 1990.

O’Sullivan stated in his affidavit that, for "personal and family security," he will not engage in discussions regarding matters that happened in South Africa or overseas prior to 1990.

However, the ad hoc committee, which is investigating police corruption and political interference, rejected this paragraph and condition. The committee stated that O’Sullivan cannot prescribe what members are allowed to ask him.

O’Sullivan’s testimony got off to a shaky start on Tuesday when he disagreed with the committee on the scope of questioning.

O’Sullivan, who has also received extra security due to safety concerns, insisted the restriction is merely to protect his family and personal interests.

"There have been multiple attempts on my life. Unfortunately, the criminal element, what they try to do—they try to find out things about you," O’Sullivan said.

This condition was rejected by most members as being unreasonable.

Committee member Julius Malema remarked, "This paragraph number 3 is not worth the paper it’s written on. We are going to ask questions beyond 1990, and they are going to be answered here."

Committee Chairperson, Soviet Lekganyane, urged the evidence leader to disregard the paragraph and continue leading evidence.

"Let’s all agree that the committee does not accept this condition," Lekganyane said.

O’Sullivan’s evidence continues.

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