Freetown, Sierra Leone – The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has been called to take action following serious allegations of procurement malpractice and abuse of office within the Projects Fiduciary Management Unit (PFMU).
The Independent Procurement Review Panel (IPRP) has referred the matter to the ACC after concluding its investigation into complaints regarding the bidding process for a World Bank-funded project.
The controversy arose when Smart Network Solution SL Ltd and Computer Shop, two bidders for the supply and installation of equipment for the Bank of Sierra Leone Data Centre, lodged formal complaints. They alleged that the procurement process was unfairly handled, with procedural irregularities and questionable disqualifications raising concerns over transparency.
The IPRP’s investigation found troubling lapses in due process. According to the panel, the PFMU failed to provide required documentation, ignored legal obligations under the Public Procurement Act of 2016, and refused to cooperate with hearings.
The panel described these actions as deliberate obstruction, warning that such conduct threatens public confidence in the country’s procurement systems.
In response to its findings, the IPRP has mandated a fresh evaluation of technical bids by an independent committee consisting of representatives from the Ministry of Finance, the World Bank, and other key stakeholders. Additionally, it has recommended an investigation into members of the original evaluation committee for potential abuse of office under the Anti-Corruption Act.
With the case now in the hands of the ACC, expectations are high for a thorough investigation and potential legal action against those found culpable.
This latest procurement scandal underscores ongoing concerns about governance and accountability in public sector contracting, particularly in projects funded by international partners.
