By Our Reporter
Government’s Chief Legal Adviser Frank Mbeta on Monday morning failed to appear before the Parliamentary Public Accounts Committee (PAC) to respond to questions regarding the controversial purchase of Amaryllis Hotel by the Public Service Pension Fund Trust.
PAC chairperson Steven Malondera confirmed that Mbeta informed Parliament through a letter that he was unable to attend the hearing due to other commitments.
However, Malondera said the committee has exercised its legal powers to compel Mbeta to appear before it later today.
“As a committee we have invoked the powers granted to us by law and directed that Mr. Mbeta should appear before PAC this afternoon at 5pm,” said Malondera.
The PAC is currently conducting an inquiry into the purchase of the Amaryllis Hotel by the Public Service Pension Fund Trust, a deal that has attracted significant public scrutiny and raised questions about the use of pensioners’ funds.
Meanwhile, Malondera revealed that he and other members of the committee have been receiving threats from unknown individuals linked to the ongoing investigation.
He said the matter has been reported to the Malawi Police Service and that he has formally requested security protection for committee members.
Malondera further disclosed that he has engaged leaders of political parties to ensure that no member of the committee is withdrawn or prevented from participating in the ongoing investigation.
He emphasized that the committee remains committed to completing its inquiry and ensuring accountability over the Amaryllis Hotel transaction.
The PAC hearing into the matter is expected to continue this week as the committee seeks testimonies from key officials connected to the deal.
