Dear Editor,
Anyone who has listened to former President Bharrat Jagdeo for any length of time can testify to his vociferous anti-corruption stance and his lengthy explanations of the systems put in place by his and other PPP/C administrations; the Public Procurement Commission (PPC) takes pride in place among Jagdeo’s list of anti-corruption measures, however, all the systems, checks and balances are only as good as the people charged with carrying the mandate. It is for this reason, the PPC’s d’être will be under the microscope as they engage in a review of the Belle Vue Pump Station contract awarded to Tepui Group Inc. Here is what I expect from our nation’s primary anti-corruption agency as a minimum given the powers and resources under their command:
1. A detailed account of each company deemed ‘unresponsive’, not simply a list, I expect a reason for each disqualification, which must include written questions to each of the companies asking for clarification on any issue that caused their disqualification. For example, if ‘Company A’ was disqualified because there was no GRA Compliance certificate, the PPC must ask if one was submitted, and if the answer is yes then a copy should be requested, then cross-checked with GRA for authenticity and date issued. Every reason must be examined forensically.
2. The company’s experience must be examined and chronicled in detail.
3. The company’s equipment and staff lists must be audited by the PPC.
4. Bid evaluators should be asked to provide explanations to PPC in writing.
5. NPTAB must provide answers in writing to PPC questions.
Editor, the best systems of checks and balances only work when they are managed with watertight integrity. For too long the term ‘unresponsive bidder’ has been used as a cover for nefarious practice. The PPC investigation may or may not prove corrupt practice in the Belle Vue Pump Contract award, but the level of thoroughness and transparency utilized by the PPC will demonstrate the success or failure of the house that Jagdeo built. I sincerely hope those appointed to fulfill the mandate are up to the task.
Sincerely,
Robin Singh