Namibia’s Minister of Finance, Iipumbu Shiimi, has proposed a bill to create a dedicated procurement court to streamline the resolution of procurement disputes. This court aims to enhance accountability and transparency in public procurement, addressing issues identified in the existing Public Procurement Act. The establishment of this court is part of the government’s broader plan to improve efficiency within the procurement process.
A proposed bill in Namibia, introduced by Minister of Finance and Public Enterprises Iipumbu Shiimi, seeks to establish a dedicated procurement court aimed at resolving procurement-related disputes more effectively. This initiative stems from an identified need to address the inadequacies within the Public Procurement Act of 2015. The act, which has been operational since April 1, 2017, was designed to uphold essential procurement principles, including fairness, transparency, efficiency, and integrity in public procurement processes.
Shiimi emphasized that the amendments outlined in the bill are critical for enhancing accountability and promoting a faster resolution of disputes in the public procurement system. These changes echo the priorities set forth in the Swapo Party Implementation Plan for 2025 to 2030, which earmarked the establishment of a public procurement court as a key initiative.
The Minister noted that current public procurement processes often face prolonged legal challenges that can impede service delivery and discourage fair competition. Specific examples include lengthy legal disputes regarding the procurement of vital goods such as pharmaceuticals and food for school hostels, which lead to emergency procurement practices. Such situations are accompanied by significant cost escalations and reduced competition in bidding.
The amendment proposes the formation of a specialty court within the High Court to effectively adjudicate public procurement matters, aiming to overcome these challenges and streamline the procurement process in Namibia.
The introduction of a dedicated procurement court in Namibia, as proposed by Minister Iipumbu Shiimi, is an important move to address existing inadequacies in the Public Procurement Act. By establishing this court, Namibia aims to enhance accountability, speed up dispute resolution, and encourage fair competition within the public procurement system, ultimately benefiting service delivery and economic efficiency.
Original Source: www.namibian.com.na
