• Table of Contents

  • Government Acknowledges Ongoing Shortcomings in the Public Procurement Code
  • Persistent Gaps in the Legal Framework
  • Key Areas of Concern
  • Government’s Commitment to Reform
  • Conclusion: A Step Toward Greater Accountability

Government Acknowledges Ongoing Shortcomings in the Public Procurement Code

Persistent Gaps in the Legal Framework

The government has officially recognized the continued existence of significant shortcomings in the current Public Procurement Code, a legal framework that governs how public contracts are awarded and managed. Despite previous reforms aimed at enhancing transparency and efficiency, officials admit that the system still suffers from structural and procedural weaknesses that hinder its effectiveness.

These deficiencies have been highlighted in recent evaluations and public discussions, where stakeholders from both the public and private sectors have voiced concerns about the lack of clarity in certain provisions, inconsistencies in implementation, and limited access to procurement opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The government’s acknowledgment marks a critical step toward addressing these issues and initiating a new phase of reform.

Key Areas of Concern

The shortcomings identified in the Public Procurement Code span several areas, each of which has a direct impact on the fairness and efficiency of public contracting. Among the most pressing issues are:

• Complex Procedures: The current code includes overly complicated administrative steps that delay project execution and discourage participation from smaller contractors.
• Lack of Transparency: There are insufficient mechanisms to ensure full transparency in the bidding and selection processes, raising concerns about favoritism and corruption.
• Inadequate Monitoring: The absence of robust oversight tools makes it difficult to track contract performance and hold parties accountable.
• Limited Digital Integration: The procurement system has not fully embraced digital tools, which could streamline processes and improve access to information.

These issues not only affect the quality of public services but also undermine public trust in government institutions. As such, addressing them has become a priority for policymakers.

Government’s Commitment to Reform

In response to these challenges, the government has pledged to undertake a comprehensive review of the Public Procurement Code. This initiative will involve consultations with legal experts, civil society organizations, and business representatives to ensure that the revised code reflects best practices and meets the needs of all stakeholders.

The reform process is expected to focus on simplifying procedures, enhancing transparency, and promoting fair competition. Additionally, there are plans to integrate digital platforms more effectively into the procurement process, which would allow for real-time tracking of contracts and greater public oversight.

Conclusion: A Step Toward Greater Accountability

The government’s admission of ongoing deficiencies in the Public Procurement Code is a significant development that signals a willingness to improve governance and accountability. By identifying key problem areas and committing to reform, authorities are laying the groundwork for a more transparent, efficient, and inclusive procurement system.

If implemented effectively, these reforms could lead to better public service delivery, increased investor confidence, and stronger institutional integrity. The coming months will be crucial in determining whether the government can translate its promises into tangible improvements that benefit all citizens.