Public Accounts Committee (PAC) Chairperson Steven Malondera told Parliament on Wednesday that the committee has suspended the presentation of its report on the Amaryllis Hotel purchase, opting instead to extend the inquiry by one month.
The decision halts immediate tabling of the findings, as lawmakers push for a broader and more inclusive investigation into the controversial transaction.
Malondera said the committee resolved to withdraw the report and reopen the process to accommodate additional input and scrutiny from stakeholders who were not initially engaged.
“We have agreed to extend for one month to allow Parliament to organise resources and ensure all key stakeholders are engaged so we produce a report with clear benchmarks,” he said.
He also defended the committee’s work, stressing that the inquiry had been conducted without drawing additional public funds and was guided by qualified professionals.
Malondera further dismissed criticism surrounding the process, maintaining that the committee acted diligently and in the national interest despite external pressure and political undertones.
First Deputy Speaker of Parliament Victor Musowa upheld the committee’s decision, confirming that no report currently stands before the House.
“The report has been withdrawn and the committee will continue its inquiry, and anyone with information should bring it forward,” Musowa said.
The ruling effectively sends the matter back to the committee, extending its mandate as Parliament awaits a revised and more comprehensive report.
