By Mohamed Kamara
The 2023 audit report has raised serious concerns over the Ministry of Transport and Aviation’s procurement process for 241 vehicles intended for Paramount Chiefs, judges, and other public officials. Signed on 17th February 2023, the contract, worth US$21,908,500, with West African Distribution Motors (WAD Motors), was supposed to deliver the vehicles in 2 to 4 months. However, 13 months after the signing, only 45 vehicles have been delivered, and the remaining 196 are yet to be accounted for.
The procurement process itself is under scrutiny. According to the audit, the Procurement Committee meeting minutes revealed discrepancies. While five suppliers were initially identified during the meeting on 25th January 2023, the meeting minutes from the 26th January 2023 meeting indicated the inclusion of six suppliers, with names differing from those originally identified. The Ministry also failed to provide vital documentation for audit inspection, including the technical evaluation report, bidding documents, and performance security.
In response to the audit’s findings, the Ministry clarified that the discrepancy in the procurement committee’s minutes was due to a mix-up with minutes related to a separate procurement for other ministries and agencies. They further stated that the missing bid documents were in the file, but their cover page was not clearly identified during the audit review.
While the Ministry has defended its process, the issues remain unresolved. The delivery of the vehicles has been further marred by the vehicles being handed over to the Paramount Chiefs unregistered, without licenses or insurance, raising concerns about the Ministry’s adherence to proper procurement practices.
The auditor’s comment on the matter indicates that despite management’s response, the discrepancies in the procurement process and the lack of vital documents remain unresolved. As the Ministry continues to explain its position, questions linger over the transparency and efficiency of the vehicle procurement process, which was meant to serve Sierra Leone’s public officials.
The Ministry has been urged to submit the missing documentation, including vehicle ownership documents, licenses, and insurance evidence, to resolve the matter.
This latest scandal adds to growing concerns over procurement practices in Sierra Leone, with officials and the public calling for more stringent checks and balances to ensure value for money and transparency in government spending.
