PM announces procurement reform push amid ‘Mira Millions’ fallout

By Breaking Belize News Staff: Prime Minister John Briceño says Government will move ahead with major procurement reforms, including briefings for Cabinet and CEOs and the introduction of a central procurement system.

Briceño told reporters that the Financial Secretary, Contractor General, and Auditor General will be asked to brief Cabinet and chief executive officers on procurement rules, including financial orders, stores orders, and related controls. He said ministers and CEOs must have a clear understanding of what can and cannot be done.

The Prime Minister also said that on July 14, Government intends to present a project for a Central Procurement Unit. He said the system will include an electronic window where ministries will be required to publicly list procurement needs, from BDF purchases to other government tenders.

Cabinet has already directed that Belize’s draft updated Procurement Rules be submitted for consideration within three months, as part of a fast-tracked review of the Financial Orders 1965 and Stores Orders 1968.

Briceño said a centralized system would improve transparency, allow certified vendors to compete, help Government secure better prices, and create space for micro, small, and medium enterprises to access a share of public procurement.

The announcement follows weeks of intense scrutiny and public outcry about the ongoing “Mira Millions” scandal which has rocked the government.

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