Opposition Member of Parliament (MP) Ganesh Mahipaul has submitted a motion to the National Assembly, calling for an amendment to the Procurement Act of 2003 to include an opposition-nominated member on the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB).
The motion, seconded by Opposition Chief Whip Christopher Jones, is dated February 27, 2025. The motion argues that the amendment would improve oversight and accountability in the procurement system. It states, “The participation of the Leader of the Parliamentary Opposition in the NPTAB will provide an additional layer of scrutiny, enhancing the transparency and accountability of the procurement system and ensuring that the views of the opposition are considered in decisions that affect public spending and procurement policies.”
The NPTAB, established under the Procurement Act, is responsible for developing policies, approving tender procedures, and evaluating bids to ensure fair competition and prevent corruption.
The motion highlights the importance of broader participation in governance, asserting that it is vital to ensure that all segments of the society, including the opposition, are able to contribute and oversee the procurement process. This Mahipaul says will foster inclusivity and strengthen the overall trust of the public in the government’s actions.
MP Mahipaul further contends that including an opposition representative would strengthen Guyana’s democratic framework. The motion calls on the government to take legislative steps to amend the Act, stating, “This would serve to ensure a more balanced representation in the NPTAB, fostering greater accountability and contributing to the continued strengthening of Guyana’s democratic processes.”
