Public procurement is a critical function that ensures efficient utilization of public funds. However, it often falls prey to mistrust, misconceptions, and undue pressures.
1️⃣ Perception vs. Reality
- The government sector sees private vendors as opportunists, always looking for loopholes.
- The audit authorities suspect procurement officials of collusion with suppliers.
- The public assumes that every tender involves kickbacks.
In this chaotic environment, procurement officials are often caught between avoiding audit objections and ensuring better procurement. The result? Rule-twisting, pressure from higher-ups, and a focus on compliance over quality.
2️⃣ What Needs to Change?
✅ Transparency & Digitalization: Full implementation of e-Procurement systems (like e-PADS) to minimize human discretion.
✅ Capacity Building: Training procurement officials to balance compliance with value-for-money procurement.
✅ Audit Reform: Audits should focus on performance & efficiency rather than just procedural lapses.
✅ Independent Oversight: Establishing procurement review boards that ensure decisions are merit-based, not politically driven.
🔹 Public procurement should be about achieving the best value for taxpayers' money—not just avoiding audit objections or pleasing high-ups. It’s time to shift from a blame game to real solutions.
💬 What are your thoughts on improving public procurement? Let’s discuss. #PublicProcurement #Transparency #GoodGovernance #Efficiency
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