Martinelli’s Changes to Procurement Law to be Appealed


News from Panama / Tuesday, July 21st, 2015

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The elimination of the abbreviated tenders is part of the search for greater transparency, although it will mean more red tape.

The first major change in the law is the elimination of the changes made to it during the Martinelli administration which will return the law practically to its original features. One of the promises that the Public Procurement Directorate says it is sticking to is adhering to transparency, so that the procurement processes are as clear and transparent as possible, particularly as far as costs are concerned.

The proposal to eliminate the abbreviated tender is based on the fact that the process is so short, limiting participation by several potential suppliers. This type of contract is one of the changes that was made during the presidency of Martinell.

Prensa.com reports that “… the ability of the state to disqualify suppliers that do not comply will be strengthened. We are trying to incorporate much stronger articles which combat corruption in public procurements, much stronger in the division of materials and closing the door to purchasing the same services or materials in different public events in a period of three months. Those national or foreign companies that have participated in acts of bribery will be disqualified from participating in tenders. “