EFF labels Paul O'Sullivan a 'fugitive', files criminal complaint after committee exit

The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) have characterised forensic investigator Paul O'Sullivan as a fugitive from the law, demanding that he be prevented from leaving the country.

The party's stance follows a formal criminal complaint laid against O'Sullivan on Friday morning.

The move was prompted by O'Sullivan's decision to walk out of a Parliamentary Ad Hoc Committee meeting yesterday to catch a flight, an act the EFF claims constitutes a violation of the Powers and Privileges Act.

READ: EFF files criminal charges against Paul O'Sullivan following Parliamentary walkout

The EFF argues that O'Sullivan is in contempt of Parliament for abandoning his testimony while under oath.

According to the party, this sudden departure has stalled the progress of an active investigation.

EFF spokesperson Sinawo Tambo stated that the criminal complaint is a necessary measure to compel O’Sullivan’s return to the legislature.

"The EFF has correctly characterised Paul O’Sullivan as a fugitive of the law," Tambo said. "He violated the Powers and Privileges Act of Parliament by cutting short a submission while he was giving evidence under oath, which is impeding on the work of an ongoing investigation. So, the EFF has taken the right approach by laying a criminal case against him."

While the EFF has moved forward with legal action, the Speaker of the National Assembly, Thoko Didiza, is reportedly taking a more measured approach.

Didiza is currently awaiting a formal report from the Ad Hoc Committee before determining what disciplinary or legal course of action Parliament will pursue against the investigator.