PM Shehbaz says transparency in procurement is govt’s top priority

ISLAMABAD, Nov 21 (SABAH): Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has said ensuring transparency in procurement and service acquisition in all government institutions is the top priority of the government.

Chairing a review meeting of the Public Procurement and Good Governance in Islamabad on Thursday, he said bringing transparency to the procurement process in the government departments will further enhance foreign investors’ confidence.

The Prime Minister directed to purge the Public Procurement Regulatory Authority of all kind of influence after introducing reforms to the PPRA. He also gave clear instructions to ensure third-party validation, including quality assurance, in all government procurements.

Shehbaz Sharif further directed the establishment of a committee separate from the procurement agency to address complaints related to the procurement process. He said competent and professional people having required experience should be appointed on merit in PPRA.

The Prime Minister instructed all the government departments to use e-procurement. He said special procurement cells should be established for procurement and acquisition of services in the government departments. He said transparency in government affairs is inevitable for country’s development.

The Prime Minister was briefed that review of PPRA Ordinance as well as relevant rules and procedures has been completed and soon these amendments will be presented to the Federal Cabinet for approval.

It was said these amendments are aimed at ensuring transparency in the procurement process and align them with contemporary requirements.