Cancellation of Namcor tender criticised

•ETUNA SHIKALEPO THE cancellation of a tender to transport and distribute petroleum products for the National Petroleum Corporation of Namibia (Namcor) has drawn intense criticism.

Over 20 companies tendered to transport and distribute petroleum products for Namcor, but the tender was unceremoniously cancelled in December last year.

Some of the bidders, who preferred anonymity, alleged that a certain company, which was not shortlisted, had attempted to “bribe” the Namcor board with about N$2 million to be favourably considered.

Namcor board chairperson Patrick Kauta dismissed this allegation as untrue, stating that the board was not aware of any company trying to bribe it.

“We were just appointed last year September, and the tender was advertised in August/July,” Kauta told Nampa in a telephonic interview on Friday.

He, however, acknowledged that the tender was cancelled because about 60% of the companies which applied had not complied with the tender specifications. He said another reason was that none of the companies had qualified drivers to transport dangerous products.

The tender was for the transportation and distribution of all Namcor’s petroleum products, ranging from petrol, diesel, and heavy fuel oil, to its clients around the country.

Five companies were reportedly shortlisted for the tender.

Namcor managing director Immanuel Mulunga informed the bidders in writing that the cancellation was procedural.

“We appreciate your interest in this tender and your decision to work with us, and we remain interested in doing business together in future ventures,” Mulunga said in a copy of the letter in Nampa’s possession.

Approached for comment on Friday, Namcor public relations officer Utaara Hoveka said the tender was cancelled at the direction and guidance of the company’s board of directors.

Hoveka stressed that the board wanted to ensure that the process was free of loopholes and in line with international best practice.

“Namcor remains committed to maintaining high standards of professionalism and transparency in all its dealings,” he said.

Hoveka said the tender would be readvertised during the first quarter of 2017, and interested companies would have the opportunity to participate, including those which participated in the cancelled tender.

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