09 Feb 2015

Some participants at the audit and finance seminar have called on North West District Council and Tawana Land Board to come up with an effective tool that will address irregularities in the tendering and procurement processes to promote fair competition amongst suppliers.

Participants made the plea after a presentation by Local Authorities Procurement and Asset Disposal (LAPAD) secretary, Mr Seoroleng Malepe regarding the procedures and regulations of tendering and procurement processes.

They complained that there were some irregularities in the processes as some people persued their personal interests resulting in tenders won by same people.

In addition, they observed that sound contracting practices were not consistently adopted to implement sound principles and policies, which include achieving value for money and open and fair competition.

They noted that at times people who did not qualify were awarded tenders while others lacked resources/equipment and ended up selling their tenders.  Interference of bidders in the tendering processes was also indicated as it compromises fairness and equity. 

One of the participants, Mr Reaboka Mbulawa observed that some failed to complete project within time resulting in their completion period extended.

He suggested that the procuring entities could develop a data base of all suppliers in the district to promote effective competition.

Participants said the tool would ensure that the two institutions are transparent and fair to all bidders.

They also called for public education on procedures and regulations of tendering processes indicating that some people were denied the opportunity to compete because they lacked knowledge and information.

For his part, LAPAD secretary, Mr Malepe explained that they have come up with a new tool, the procurement plan which would guide to address the irregularities.

He said according to LAPAD Act, they should ensure that a tender is an open competitive economy; promote competition and ensure that competitors are treated fairly and also promote the integrity and fairness of those procedures.

He also indicated that the lowest priced bid which was eligible, compliant, responsive and met the minimum qualifying technical mark should be the best evaluated bid and be recommended for award of contract.

“We are trying by all means to run away from a situation where by one bidder is awarded all tenders because that does not give fair competition to value for money,” he added.

Mr Malepe revealed that it was illegal for bidders to interfere in tender opening processes as it lowers the integrity of the institution. 

Regarding the issue of bidders selling tenders, he noted that there was no policy in place that stops them from the practice until decision makers change the law.

He said if the bidder met the requirements, he/she could not be denied the opportunity just because he has no resources.  He explained that de-briefing was done to promote constructive and transparent dialogue between procuring entities and suppliers.

The seminar was organised by North West District Council in collaboration with Tawana Land Board aimed to capacitate the Finance and Audit committees on council and land board procedures and regulations. ENDS