Islamabad: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has said ensuring transparency in procurement and service acquisition in all government institutions is the top priority of the government. Chairing a review meeting of the Public Procurement and Good Governance in Islamabad today, he said bringing transparency to the procurement process in the government departments will further enhance foreign investors’ confidence.

According to Radio Pakistan, the Prime Minister directed to purge the Public Procurement Regulatory Authority (PPRA) of all kinds of influence after introducing reforms. He also gave clear instructions to ensure third-party validation, including quality assurance, in all government procurements. Shehbaz Sharif further directed the establishment of a committee separate from the procurement agency to address complaints related to the procurement process. He emphasized the importance of appointing competent and professional individuals with the required experience on merit in the PPRA.

The Prime Minister i
nstructed all government departments to use e-procurement and suggested the formation of special procurement cells for the procurement and acquisition of services in government departments. He stressed that transparency in government affairs is crucial for the country’s development.

The Prime Minister was briefed that the review of the PPRA Ordinance, as well as relevant rules and procedures, has been completed, and these amendments will soon be presented to the Federal Cabinet for approval. It was mentioned that these amendments aim to ensure transparency in the procurement process and align them with contemporary requirements.