The People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government of Guyana is undertaking a comprehensive review of its procurement system at all government levels. This initiative, as Vice President and PPP General Secretary Bharrat Jagdeo said during a news conference, addresses persistent concerns and allegations of corruption within government operations.
Jagdeo emphasised a zero-tolerance policy for violations of procurement laws, warning of strict consequences for those found skirting the regulations. He highlighted the government’s intention to scrutinise procurement procedures for compliance across public corporations, statutory bodies, ministries, regions, and up to the National Tender Board.
Additionally, Jagdeo pointed out issues related to payment delays for completed work, criticising accounting officers for unnecessary delays that force contractors to repeatedly seek their compensation. He warned that the government would conduct sting operations to catch offenders, ensuring they face the consequences if caught.
The initiative, he intimated, reflects the government’s commitment to enhancing transparency and accountability in its operations. Guyana operates under a strong anti-corruption framework, having ratified several international conventions.