Yusuf Investing Limited (YIL) risks being charged with contempt of Parliament, after it refused to appear in the ongoing inquiry into the controversial purchase of the Amaryllis Hotel.
YIL Chairperson Shiraz Yusuf and their lawyer Gabriel Kambale were to represent the company at the hearing.
The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) of Parliament vice chairperson Tulinje Muluzi said through a letter dated 25th April 2026 authored by Kambale on behalf of Yusuf Investments Limited, the witness requested that the proceedings be conducted in camera on grounds relating to alleged threats to personal safety, anonymous and harassing phone calls, hostile social media commentary, recent kidnapping incidents, and concerns regarding disclosure of confidential commercial information.
However, Muluzi said the Committee cannot permit a situation where witnesses selectively determine the terms under which Parliament may exercise its constitutional oversight responsibilities, especially in matters involving substantial public interest.
“As the public is aware, this inquiry concerns matters of significant national importance involving the management of public pension resources and issues of governance, accountability, and public trust. From the very beginning, the Committee has conducted these proceedings in a manner that is transparent, fair, and consistent with the constitutional oversight mandate entrusted to Parliament.
“In keeping with that commitment to fairness, the Committee invited Yusuf Investments Limited to appear before it and provide its side of the story.
“The Committee considered the appearance of the seller to be important, not because the act of selling property is in itself unlawful, but because the Committee considered it necessary to understand the full circumstances surrounding the transaction, including the evolution of the purchase price, the engagements that took place with various actors, and the movement of funds arising from the transaction.
“The Committee wishes to make it absolutely clear to the nation that it has no interest in humiliating, targeting, or prejudging any witness.
“Parliamentary Committees derive their authority from the Constitution and the laws of this Republic. That authority carries with it both privileges and obligations. Witnesses appearing before Parliamentary Committees are expected to cooperate with lawful proceedings and to assist Parliament in establishing facts necessary for accountability and good governance.
“Following the refusal by Mr. Yusuf to continue with the proceedings, the Committee deliberated on the matter and resolved that the conduct amounts to contempt of Parliament. Consequently, the Committee has resolved to evoke the provisions of the National Assembly (Powers and Privileges) Act and will take the necessary action accordingly.
“The Committee further wishes to assure the public that this development will not derail or compromise the inquiry. The Committee remains committed to discharging its mandate professionally, independently, and without fear or favour.
“This inquiry is not about personalities. It is about accountability. It is about protecting public institutions. Above all, it is about safeguarding the pension savings of ordinary Malawians whose future security depends on the integrity of public decision-making,” he said
