Dear Editor,
A contract for the construction of a Pump Station at Belle Vue, West Bank Demerara, Region #3, was awarded to Tepui Group Inc. on August 14, 2023. The procuring entity was the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority, Ministry of Agriculture. This company which was formed only a year ago was awarded the contract through the tendering process at the National Procurement Tender Administration (NPTAB) on August 14, 2023.
Research has revealed that this company has no experience in building any similar structures, as required by law, which indicates that the technical requirements required by the successful bidder is to have successfully completed projects of a similar nature and size within the last three years. The specter of Amalia Hydro, Skeldon Sugar, Enmore Packaging, and Marriott Construction hangs over this nation like a shadow of doom.
It must be remembered that some 26 companies’ submitted bids ranging from 740 million to 1.2 Billion, so therefore, 125 million was over the lowest bidder. It stands to reason that NPTAB, no matter the numerous reasons and defence it puts out in the public domain, it raises doubts about the adherence to law and, additionally, the awarding of contracts to family and friends.
Sincerely,
Leyland Roopnaraine