Questions to the Health Minister about Irregularities in Medical Equipment Procurement: Is the Tender News Published a Coincidence or Collusion?

Summary:

• According to Nepali law, tender proposals remain confidential until the official opening date, making it suspicious if specific suppliers always win tenders.
• Since mid-2081 BS (around 2024 AD), multiple investigations by the media outlet "UkeRa" exposed irregularities and collusion in the procurement of medical equipment and supplies across various health institutions.
• Despite initial cancellations of some tenders after media reports, most tenders ended up being awarded to the same suppliers alleged to be involved in collusion.
• At a press conference, journalists questioned Health Minister Pradeep Paudel about these irregularities, implying either foresight (like astrology) or deliberate rigging.
• The minister appeared uncomfortable and avoided direct answers, citing legal constraints but failing to specify which laws prevent investigation or action.
• He claimed that 35% of the health budget remained unspent due to procurement delays and suggested changing procurement laws to address issues, but gave no concrete plans or timelines.
• Multiple examples were cited where tenders were either rigged with technical specifications favoring certain companies or cancelled only after media exposure.
• Hospitals like Narayani and Gajendra Narayan Singh showed clear patterns of awarding contracts to pre-determined suppliers, despite public allegations.
• The minister denied personal responsibility and blamed legal frameworks, while media reports consistently confirmed procurement collusion.
• The article criticizes the lack of accountability and calls for transparent investigations and reforms in procurement processes to prevent misuse of state resources.

In short, the article exposes widespread collusion in health equipment procurement in Nepal, questions the minister’s handling of the issue, and highlights the need for stronger oversight and legal reforms.

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