Procurement rules

In Pakistan, we have what we call the Public Procurement Rules, 2004 and we also have the Public Procurement Regulatory Authority Ordinance, 2002 in the wake of which the Public Procurement Regulatory Authority was established. The PPRA is endowed with the responsibility of prescribing regulations and procedures for public procurement by public-sector organizations. It is also endowed with the responsibility of monitoring such procurement.

Despite all this, flagrant violation of PPRA Rules continues in various bodies. Those officers who follow the PPRA Rules or try to convince their seniors or principle accounting officers to observe and honour the said rules are in a fix. In order to promote transparency and efficiency, it is suggested that information and communications technology be utilized in the conduct of procurement procedures and those departments, heads of departments or other persons who violate or misinterpret the PPRA be taken to task. Above all, the Oversight Committee of the Ministry of Finance may be set up to monitor the implementation of PPRA Rules. If there is no penalty or sanction then why are such rules framed and bodies like the PPRA established?

Hashim Abro

Islamabad