Political fixer and businessman Brown Mogotsi was expected to return to the Madlanga Commission today but failed to appear, citing illness.
Evidence leader Matthew Charleston told the Commission that Mogotsi had informed them he was unwell and would submit a medical certificate later today as proof of his condition.
Charleston emphasised that Mogotsi has previously honoured his commitments to appear and cooperate with the inquiry. He urged the Commission not to make any final determination regarding his absence until the promised medical certificate has been received and assessed.
Mogotsi has already testified extensively before the Commission and has also appeared in Parliament. However, several key issues remain outstanding and have not yet been fully canvassed in either forum.
It was further placed on record that although Mogotsi previously had legal representation, he is no longer represented and is expected to appear in person when he returns.
The Commission initially considered declaring him in contempt and initiating legal processes immediately. That course of action has now been placed on hold pending submission of the medical certificate.
Proceedings have been stood down until Wednesday, when the Commission is expected to decide how to proceed in light of his absence.
The Commission also indicated that it is considering summoning medical practitioners who allegedly issued doctors’ notes to witnesses who failed to appear, as part of tightening oversight around non attendance.