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Post Reply: Concerns Raised by MPs Over E-Procurement System’s Potential to Worsen Corruption

<blockquote><div class="quotetitle">Quote from <a class="profile-link highlight-moderator" href="https://lawguide.co.ke/understanding-law/legal-forum/profile/lawyer/">Lawyer</a> on September 3, 2025, 6:30 am</div><div id="pl-7823"  class="panel-layout" ><div id="pg-7823-0"  class="panel-grid panel-no-style" ><div id="pgc-7823-0-0"  class="panel-grid-cell"  data-weight="1" ><div id="panel-7823-0-0-0" class="so-panel widget widget_sow-editor panel-first-child panel-last-child" data-index="0" data-style="{&quot;background_image_attachment&quot;:false,&quot;background_display&quot;:&quot;tile&quot;,&quot;background_image_size&quot;:&quot;full&quot;,&quot;background_image_opacity&quot;:&quot;100&quot;,&quot;border_thickness&quot;:&quot;1px&quot;}" ><div
			
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	<p dir="ltr" data-pm-slice="0 0 []">A section of Members of Parliament (MPs) has expressed significant concerns about the ongoing rollout of the e-procurement system, warning that it may inadvertently exacerbate corruption rather than mitigate it. The legislators argue that the digital platform, intended to enhance transparency and efficiency in public procurement processes, could instead create new avenues for corrupt practices if not implemented with stringent oversight and robust safeguards.</p>
<p dir="ltr">The e-procurement system, designed to streamline government purchasing by digitizing processes such as tendering, bidding, and contract awards, has been promoted as a critical tool for reducing human interference and curbing corrupt practices that have long plagued public procurement. However, some MPs are skeptical, pointing out that the system's success hinges on its design, execution, and monitoring. Without these elements being meticulously addressed, they fear the platform could be manipulated to favor specific vendors or facilitate underhanded deals.</p>
<p dir="ltr">One major concern raised is the potential for loopholes in the system’s architecture. MPs noted that if the e-procurement platform lacks proper checks and balances, it could allow tech-savvy individuals or groups to exploit vulnerabilities. For instance, weak authentication protocols or inadequate encryption could enable unauthorized access to sensitive procurement data, leading to manipulation of bids or misallocation of contracts. Additionally, there is apprehension about the capacity of government agencies to manage and secure the system effectively, given the technical expertise required.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Another point of contention is the risk of elite capture, where influential players, including politically connected individuals or corporations, could dominate the system. MPs cautioned that without transparent mechanisms to ensure fair competition, the e-procurement platform might concentrate opportunities in the hands of a few, undermining the very principles of equity and accountability it is meant to uphold. They emphasized that the digitization of procurement does not automatically eliminate favoritism or collusion but could instead make such practices harder to detect if not properly monitored.</p>
<p dir="ltr">The legislators also highlighted the issue of limited digital literacy among some government officials and suppliers, particularly in rural areas. They argued that the shift to a fully digital system could exclude small-scale vendors who lack access to the necessary technology or skills, inadvertently favoring larger firms with greater resources. This could create an uneven playing field, further entrenching economic disparities and fostering resentment among smaller businesses.</p>
<p dir="ltr">To address these concerns, the MPs called for several measures to strengthen the e-procurement system. They urged the government to invest in comprehensive training programs to enhance digital literacy among officials and suppliers. They also advocated for the establishment of an independent oversight body to monitor the platform’s operations, ensure compliance with procurement laws, and investigate any irregularities. Additionally, they stressed the need for regular audits and public reporting to maintain transparency and build trust in the system.</p>
<p dir="ltr">The MPs further recommended that the government engage stakeholders, including civil society organizations and private sector representatives, in the design and implementation phases to ensure the system is inclusive and addresses real-world challenges. They emphasized that public participation would be critical to identifying potential weaknesses and ensuring the platform serves the public interest.</p>
<p dir="ltr">While acknowledging the potential benefits of e-procurement, such as reduced paperwork, faster processes, and improved record-keeping, the MPs underscored that these advantages could be undermined without proactive measures to prevent misuse. They urged the government to prioritize integrity and accountability in the rollout, warning that failure to do so could erode public confidence in the system and perpetuate the very issues it aims to resolve.</p>
<p dir="ltr">The concerns raised by the MPs have sparked a broader debate about the readiness of the government to transition to a fully digital procurement system. As the rollout continues, stakeholders are closely watching to see how the government will address these challenges to ensure the e-procurement platform delivers on its promise of transparency and efficiency while safeguarding against corruption.</p>
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