Spirit and intent of the Act
The “To Do List” of the next government is a long one. On that list would be things like tax reform, passing strong anti-money laundering legislation, reforming the constitution, strengthening accountability institutions like the Office of the Auditor General, the Office of the Ombudsman and the Integrity Commission, and setting up accountability institutions such as the Public Service Appellate Tribunal and the Public Procurement Commission (PPC). Of all the things that must be pursued with some speed and alacrity under a new government, the establishment of the PPC is perhaps one of the most important. Part of the reason for taking this position is that the “Dax” deal on the fibre optic cable violates the spirit and intent of the Public Procurement Act of 2003 and increases the likelihood that the benefits that could accrue to the public from a fair procurement process will not take place.
Purpose of body
The value of the PPC is not well understood as persons continue to believe that the PPC will take over decision-making as it relates to the awarding of contracts. While it could influence the decisions in some instances, the purpose of the body is more fundamental than deciding on who should be awarded contracts and who should not. The critical need for the PPC has more to do with strengthening the economic fundamentals of the homeland and helping this country to compete successfully in the world economy. The improved competitive position would reflect itself in more efficient resource allocation, the emergence of
