Dear Editor,
I am writing to express my bewilderment regarding the recent procurement decisions made by the government. While it’s essential for any government to make strategic purchases to meet the needs of its citizens, the recent acquisitions of various assets from disparate countries give rise to questions about the coherence and long-term planning of these decisions.
In recent months, we’ve witnessed the government procure two planes from India, several generators from the Dominican Republic, patrol boats from the USA, ambulances from Japan, and more. While each of these purchases may have been justified individually, collectively, they paint a picture reminiscent of shopping on Amazon rather than a comprehensive, well-thought-out strategy.
Firstly, the disjointed nature of these purchases raises concerns about the government’s procurement process. Are these decisions based on thorough assessments of the best options available, or are they merely opportunistic purchases based on individual deals?
Secondly, there’s the issue of long-term sustainability and compatibility. Will these assets work together efficiently in the long run? For instance, do the patrol boats from the USA integrate seamlessly with the planes from India? Are the ambulances from Japan equipped with technology that aligns with the country’s healthcare infrastructure?
Furthermore, there’s the matter of accountability and transparency. How are these procurement decisions being made, and who is overseeing them? Are there mechanisms in place to ensure that these purchases are made in the best interest of the Guyanese people rather than for the benefit of select individuals or entities?
I believe it’s imperative for the government to provide clarity on its procurement strategy and reassure the public that these decisions are being made judiciously and with the country’s long-term interests in mind. Additionally, there should be mechanisms in place for independent oversight to ensure accountability and transparency throughout the procurement process.
While it’s understandable that governments need to acquire various assets to serve their citizens effectively, it’s crucial that these acquisitions are made thoughtfully and strategically, rather than akin to impulse buys like individuals purchase on an online marketplace. The people of Guyana deserve assurance that their government is making decisions that will benefit them in the long run, not just in the short term.
Sincerely,
Keith Bernard
