SULEMAN DEFENDS PARLIAMENT AS PRESSURE MOUNTS OVER AMARYLLIS HOTEL PROBE
By Synd Kalimbuka
Speaker of Parliament, Sameer Suleman, has pushed back against mounting criticism over Parliament’s handling of the controversial Amaryllis Hotel inquiry, insisting lawmakers will not be dictated to by external voices.
Speaking during the 2026/27 National Budget Implementation, Tracking and Oversight Forum at the Bingu International Convention Centre, Suleman delivered a firm message to critics who have questioned the progress and credibility of the investigation.
He said Parliament, through the Public Accounts Committee (PAC), is fully aware of its responsibilities and will determine its own course without interference.
“Don’t come and tell us what to do. Leave us to do our job. We know what to do,” Suleman said, dismissing claims that the inquiry may fail to produce a report.
The Speaker stressed that the timing and outcome of the report remain the prerogative of Parliament, adding that lawmakers intend not only to release findings but also to ensure follow-up on recommendations.
Suleman further assured the public that he would not entertain any form of influence, emphasizing that the integrity of the process must be preserved.
“As a Speaker, it is in the interest of government to have the truth, nothing else but the truth,” he said.
The remarks come amid heightened scrutiny of PAC’s probe into the K128.7 billion acquisition of the Amaryllis Hotel in Blantyre by the Public Service Pension Trust Fund (PSPTF), a deal that has sparked widespread public debate.
Controversy surrounding the transaction intensified after earlier valuations reportedly placed the property’s worth at around K47 billion in 2023, raising questions about possible overpricing.
Although PAC officially closed its investigation on March 30, 2026, criticism has persisted, particularly over the committee’s failure to question key figures such as former Secretary to the President and Cabinet, Colleen Zamba, and the seller, Yusuf Investments Limited.
Zamba did not appear before the committee, with her legal representatives indicating she was receiving medical treatment abroad, a development that has further fueled public concern.
Government has since described the resulting report as “incomplete” and “flawed,” adding to pressure on Parliament to address gaps in the inquiry.
Despite the criticism, Suleman maintained that the current Parliament operates differently from previous ones, noting that past inquiries often failed to produce reports.
He expressed confidence in the current cohort of lawmakers, citing strong commitment from committee chairs and Members of Parliament.
In a move aimed at strengthening oversight, Suleman also revealed that he recently secured special funding for parliamentary inquiries following discussions with the Minister of Finance.
The development, he said, will enhance Parliament’s capacity to conduct thorough investigations and reinforce its role in holding public institutions accountable.
