05 February 2026 

The ANC Study Group on the Ad Hoc Committee investigating the allegations made by Lt-Gen Mkhwanazi notes with serious concern the attacks directed at the Speaker of the National Assembly, Cde Thoko Didiza, by members of the EFF and MKP.

The Ad Hoc Committee has considered the concerns made by the Speaker, and firmly re-iterated that the two individuals appear before Parliament Ad Hoc Committee physically and consider the concerns raised in the Speakers’ response to the Committee.

The ANC study Group reaffirms its position that both Mr Paul O’Sullivan and Mr. Brown Mogotsi must appear physically to present their evidence and testify before the Ad Hoc Committee. Claims that the Speaker is deliberately avoiding their physical appearance in order to protect the African National Congress are false and unfounded.

Since the inception of the Ad Hoc Committee, ANC members have acted impartially and in the best interests of the people of South Africa. 

The Speaker noted that the issuing of summons to any persons may only be executed after the Speaker has agreed with the committee’s resolution and further that the Speaker’s concurrence may not be exercised arbitrarily. 

Accordingly, the Speaker directed that Parliament is obliged to act reasonably and lawfully by considering and addressing safety concerns of the potential witnesses. The Speaker has further directed the Ad Hoc Committee should engage with the witnesses’ regarding their security concerns and proposals regarding their anticipated physical appearances before the Committee.

The Ad Hoc Committee has considered the concerns made by the Speaker, firmly re-iterated that the two individuals appear before Parliament Ad Hoc Committee physically and made necessary amends as per the Speakers directive. 

The ANC Study Group strongly condemns attempts by opposition parties to score political points using this sensitive process. The work of the Ad Hoc Committee must remain focused on serving the best interests of the citizens of South Africa and should not be exploited for narrow political gain.

Issued by the Whip of the ANC Study Group on Ad Hoc Committee, Cde Khusela Sangoni

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