ISLAMABAD, (TDI): Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has ordered the implementation of third-party validation and quality assurance across all government procurement processes to ensure greater transparency and accountability.
In a meeting convened on Thursday to review public procurement practices, Sharif underscored the need for sweeping reforms within the Public Procurement Regulatory Authority (PPRA).
He called for the authority to be purged of any external influence, stressing that transparent procurement practices are essential to restoring foreign investor confidence in Pakistan.
Sharif further directed the creation of an independent committee, separate from the PPRA, to address complaints related to the procurement process. He also emphasised the importance of appointing qualified professionals to the PPRA, based on merit.
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The Prime Minister’s directives also include the widespread adoption of e-Procurement (e-PADS) across all government departments, alongside the establishment of specialized procurement cells to streamline purchasing and service acquisition.
The meeting also saw officials inform the Prime Minister that a comprehensive review of the PPRA Ordinance and related regulations has been completed. The proposed amendments will soon be presented to the federal cabinet for approval, with the aim of modernizing and enhancing transparency in procurement practices.
The meeting was attended by key government ministers, including Finance Minister Aurangzeb Khan, Economic Affairs Minister Ahad Khan Cheema, Petroleum Minister Dr. Musadik Malik, and Minister of State for Information Technology Shaza Fatima Khawaja, along with PPRA Board members and the World Bank’s Country Director.
