By Burnett Munthali

Colleen Zamba, Malawi’s former Secretary to the President and Cabinet (SPC), has refused to appear before the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) of Parliament for the third time, sparking a constitutional crisis and raising questions about the rule of law in the southern African nation.

Zamba’s lawyer, George Kadzipatike, has cited a court case related to the same matter, the purchase of Amaryllis Hotel by the Public Service Pension Trust Fund (PSPTF), as the reason for her non-appearance.

However, PAC insiders say this is just another example of Zamba’s attempts to evade accountability.

The PAC has expressed frustration at Zamba’s repeated refusals to appear, and Chairperson Steve Malondera has warned that the committee will invoke its powers to compel attendance.

“The committee will invoke its powers to ensure attendance and the production of necessary information where it is required,” he said.

Zamba’s actions have sparked concerns about parliamentary oversight and whether senior public officers can shield themselves behind court processes or medical claims.

The former SPC is not new to controversy, having previously refused to appear before the PAC in 2022 during an inquiry into NOCMA fuel procurement.

The Malawi Law Society has publicly disagreed with Zamba’s stance, saying that she is not above the law.

The society’s stance has added pressure on Zamba to cooperate with the PAC.

Kadzipatike’s letter to the Clerk of Parliament stated that Zamba is currently receiving medical treatment outside the country, but PAC insiders question the timing and validity of this claim.

The Amaryllis Hotel probe continues, with notable figures including the current SPC, Justin Saidi, and Amaryllis Hotel owners, Yusuf Investment Limited, expected to appear for interview.

Zamba’s testimony is seen as critical to understanding the role of senior government officials in the controversial PSPTF transaction.

The standoff raises serious questions about the accountability of senior public officials in Malawi and the effectiveness of parliamentary oversight.

The PAC’s next steps will be closely watched, as it seeks to assert its authority and ensure that Zamba is held to account.

The Malawi government has a reputation for tackling corruption, but Zamba’s case will test its commitment to the rule of law and accountability.

The international community is watching closely, as the outcome will have implications for Malawi’s governance and economic development.

As the standoff continues, Malawians are asking: will Zamba ultimately bow to the law, or will she continue to defy Parliament?

The answer remains uncertain, but one thing is clear – the eyes of the nation are on the SPC’s office and the PAC.