By: Fatou Krubally
In a gripping session of the Commission of Inquiry into local government councils, Procurement Manager Fatoumatta Saho Cham made explosive revelations regarding the procurement process for the Waste Management Project.
Her testimony on Thursday, December 19, 2024, raised serious questions about transparency and adherence to regulations in the acquisition of essential waste management trucks.
Cham stated, “We were misled about the GPA regulations and believed we could engage with ESP Motors before the official procurement process began.” This admission has sparked outrage among stakeholders who demand accountability in local government dealings. The Procurement Manager’s comments suggest a troubling lack of clarity regarding the rules governing public procurement, which are designed to ensure fairness and competition.
During her testimony, Cham detailed how the Council had engaged ESP Motors prior to the tender process, a move that raised significant concerns about favoritism and the integrity of the bidding process.
“The discussions with ESP Motors were meant to address our urgent needs for delivery timelines and customization of the compactors,” she explained, indicating that the Council was under pressure to act quickly in response to waste management challenges.
The minutes from the meetings revealed that negotiations with ESP Motors were not only premature but also potentially in violation of established procurement protocols. Cham’s assertion that the Council was operating under the impression that GPA regulations were not applicable has led to calls for a thorough investigation into the decision-making processes within the Council.
Critics have pointed out that such actions undermine public trust in local government operations. “If we cannot trust our procurement processes, how can we expect to manage public resources effectively?” questioned one community leader present at the inquiry.
The Commission of Inquiry is now tasked with delving deeper into these allegations, examining the extent of the irregularities, and determining the accountability of those involved. The revelations from Cham’s testimony have set the stage for a broader discussion about the need for stricter adherence to procurement regulations and the importance of transparency in local government operations.
As the inquiry continues, the implications of Cham’s statements could lead to significant reforms in how local councils conduct procurement, ensuring that future projects are managed with integrity and accountability. The community awaits the Commission’s findings, hopeful for a resolution that restores trust in local governance.