Sparks flew during the parliamentary inquiry into suspended public protector Busisiwe Mkhwebane's fitness to hold office.

Mkhwebane’s lawyer, advocate Dali Mpofu, was cross-examining the third witness Sphelo Samuel.

Mpofu questioned Samuel: “You undermine or underestimate advocate Mkhwebane — correct?”

“No, it’s not correct,” said Samuel.

Mpofu: “You think she’s not intellectually fit for her job?”

Samuel: “Yes, I do.”

Mpofu: “You think she’s intimidated by the likes of you?”

Samuel: “That is my belief.”

Mpofu: “Do you think you should be the public protector?”

Samuel: “No.”

Mpofu: “Do you think you are intellectually better than her?”

Samuel: “I certainly think I can handle some things better than she does.”

Mpofu: “Are you a male chauvinist?”

Samuel: “No.”

Samuel is the reinstated head of the Free State office of the public protector who reported alleged misconduct by Mkhwebane.

MPs also posed questions to Samuel until closing on Friday.

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