Officials can be fired over procurement breaches – Pres Ali warns

…meets with PSs, incoming REOs, NPTAB officers

President Dr Irfaan Ali, along with Vice President (VP) Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, on Wednesday met with Cabinet members, incoming Regional Executive Officers, Permanent Secretaries, officers from the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB), and accounting officers from all administrative regions to reinforce the Government’s position on accountability, transparency and fiscal discipline in public administration.

During the meeting, the Head of State stressed that public office carries a “sacred trust” and said all public spending must serve the welfare of citizens and support national development.
According to a statement from the Office of the President, the Government remains committed to ensuring that procurement systems, including regional tender boards, operate with full transparency and in strict compliance with the law.
President Ali also underscored the administration’s intention to use technology, including artificial intelligence, to strengthen oversight of procurement systems, improve efficiency and identify irregularities in the award and management of contracts.
He warned that breaches of financial and procurement procedures, including involvement with multiple companies in violation of regulations, would result in severe consequences, including dismissal from office where necessary.
Jagdeo also addressed the gathering, emphasising that every expenditure by the State must be evaluated based on its contribution to citizens’ welfare and the country’s development.
The VP said the Government continues to strengthen oversight systems aimed at reducing waste and improving accountability, efficiency and transparency across all levels of governance.