In a recent press conference, PPP General Secretary Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo underscored the government’s ongoing commitment to improving transparency within Guyana’s procurement system.
Dr. Jagdeo detailed the measures being implemented to address issues and enhance the integrity of procurement practices.
Dr. Jagdeo emphasized that despite the challenges, the government is dedicated to advancing the procurement system by ensuring full compliance with the procurement act.
This initiative, led by himself and Finance and Public Service Minister Dr. Ashni Singh, aims to address existing criticisms and improve procedural transparency.
He contrasted the current administration’s efforts with those of the previous APNU/AFC coalition, asserting that the PPP administration has made significant strides in reforming the procurement process.
Under the PPP government, approximately 2,000 new small contractors have been introduced since 2020, and public officials are now prohibited from bidding on projects within their own ministries to prevent conflicts of interest.
Additionally, Dr. Jagdeo discussed the correction of a change implemented by the APNU coalition regarding provisional contract sums.
Previously, the PPP administration used contingency funds for project escalations, requiring approval from the tendering authority.
The APNU’s introduction of provisional sums, which allowed engineers discretionary use, led to concerns about potential misuse.
The current administration has moved to rectify this approach to ensure better oversight and control.
These efforts reflect the government’s dedication to reforming the procurement system and promoting transparency at every level.