PAC probe into Amaryllis hotel deal stalls as key witnesses snub parliament

The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) inquiry into the controversial acquisition of Amaryllis Hotel by the Public Service Pension Trust Fund (PSPTF) has suffered a major setback after several key witnesses failed to appear before Parliament, threatening to delay efforts to establish the truth behind the high-profile transaction.

The inquiry, which has attracted widespread public interest, was expected to provide answers to critical issues surrounding the hotel purchase, including the valuation of the property, procurement procedures, funding sources, and whether the investment was made in the best interests of pension contributors.

However, scheduled proceedings were disrupted after individuals considered central to the transaction failed to attend the hearings as required, frustrating committee members and raising concerns over accountability.

PAC, which is mandated to scrutinise the use of public resources and investigate financial matters of national interest, had summoned the witnesses to provide testimony and supporting documents relating to the acquisition.

Sources close to the committee said lawmakers were relying on the witnesses’ evidence to clarify how the deal was structured, who approved it, and whether all legal and financial procedures were followed.

Committee members are reportedly dissatisfied with the witnesses’ failure to honour parliamentary summonses, warning that such conduct undermines transparency and weakens institutions meant to safeguard public resources.

The purchase of Amaryllis Hotel by PSPTF has remained under public scrutiny since details of the transaction became known.

Critics have questioned whether the hotel represented value for money and whether pension funds should have been committed to the investment without broader scrutiny.

Others argue that, as custodians of retirement savings for public servants, PSPTF has a duty to pursue investments that are secure, profitable, and fully accountable to contributors.

Analysts say the stalled inquiry could further intensify calls for stronger oversight of public pension funds and clearer safeguards on how contributors’ money is invested.

PAC is now expected to decide on its next course of action, including the possibility of reissuing summonses or recommending stronger legal measures to compel attendance by those who failed to appear.