By Rahim Abdul
Political analyst Ernest Thindwa has raised concern that political influence is increasingly undermining adherence to laws and oversight mechanisms in Malawi.
Thindwa’s remarks follow the continued absence of former Secretary to the President and Cabinet Colleen Zamba, who was expected to appear before the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) over issues surrounding the controversial sale of the Amaryllis Hotel.
According to Thindwa, the failure by key public officials to submit themselves to parliamentary scrutiny reflects a growing pattern where politics is placed above accountability.
He observed that Zamba’s absence is not an isolated incident, noting that she has previously failed to honour summons by the same parliamentary committee.
“This clearly shows that political considerations are taking precedence over legal obligations,” Thindwa explained, warning that such tendencies risk eroding public trust in governance systems.
The analyst further stressed that oversight institutions such as PAC play a critical role in ensuring transparency and any form of non-compliance weakens democratic accountability.
Records indicate that Zamba also declined to appear before PAC in relation to fuel procurement deals during her tenure as Board Chairperson of the National Oil Company of Malawi in 2022.
That matter, which drew public attention at the time, raised questions about procurement procedures and financial management within the state owned enterprise.
Meanwhile, current information suggests that Zamba’s failure to attend the hearings is attributed to reported health challenges.
Sources indicate that she is currently receiving medical treatment outside the country, a development that has been cited as the reason for her absence.
However, Thindwa argues that while health concerns may be valid, there must be clear and consistent communication to Parliament to avoid speculation.
He added that transparency in such matters is essential to maintaining institutional credibility and ensuring that public officials remain accountable regardless of their status.
The situation continues to spark debate among governance stakeholders with calls for stronger enforcement of parliamentary powers to compel attendance and uphold the rule of law.
