2024-11-13

CDEDI demands halt to new passport supplier process

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The Centre for Democracy and Economic Development Initiatives (CDEDI) has issued a seven-day ultimatum to Attorney General Thabo Chakaka Nyirenda, demanding a halt to the procurement of a new passport supplier and a return to the previous supplier, Techno Brain.

At a press conference in Lilongwe this morning, CDEDI Executive Director Sylvester Namiwa expressed concerns over the government’s decision to engage a new supplier following the expiration of the K897 million contract with E-Techno Systems at the end of August. Namiwa highlighted the potential financial implications, estimating that the government could spend up to K69 billion to establish a parallel passport system. He argued that reverting to Techno Brain could save taxpayers substantial amounts of money.

In a written response, Attorney General Thabo Chakaka Nyirenda indicated that he does not manage public procurement matters and referred inquiries to the Ministry of Homeland Security and the Immigration Department.

Dr. Steven Kayuni, Principal Secretary at the Ministry of Homeland Security, countered CDEDI’s claims, asserting that there will be no reversal regarding Techno Brain. He affirmed that the procurement process for a new supplier is underway and is being conducted in accordance with the Public Procurement and Disposal of Assets (PPDA) regulations.

As the deadline for CDEDI’s ultimatum approaches, the debate over the passport supplier continues, with significant financial and administrative implications for the government and taxpayers.

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