Bahrain Tender Board Ensures Equal Standards in Government Tenders

TDT | Manama

Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com

The Bahrain Tender Board has reaffirmed its commitment to applying uniform regulations and standards across all sectors in government tenders. This approach aligns with the objectives of the Law Regulating Government Tenders, Auctions, Purchases, and Sales, along with its executive regulations, ensuring transparency and fairness in public procurement processes.

Comprehensive Response to Parliamentary Inquiry

Responding to an inquiry from MP Dr. Hisham Ahmed Al Asheeri, the Board outlined the stringent criteria for bid acceptance. According to the Board, bids must strictly adhere to the tender document's conditions and provide all required documentation. Furthermore, suppliers and contractors are expected to possess the necessary qualifications, professional and technical competence, financial resources, equipment, and administrative capabilities to fulfill contract obligations.

The Board emphasized that participants must also meet legal eligibility requirements, be free from bankruptcy or insolvency, and comply with Bahraini laws and regulations.

Rigorous Procurement Procedures

The Tender Board detailed its robust procurement procedures, which are managed by trained teams approved by the Board. For direct contracting, these teams ensure that goods, services, or constructions meet the specified standards and that the prices remain competitive based on market conditions and the received bids.

Legal Consultancy Contract Highlighted

Addressing a specific case, the Board clarified details surrounding a legal consultancy contract for the Electricity and Water Authority (EWA). The original contract, awarded in 2021, was valued at BD 1.5 million and utilized direct contracting, permitted under Bahraini law in urgent and specialized circumstances.

The consultancy was engaged to represent EWA in a dispute at the Bahrain Dispute Resolution Centre, involving claims totaling BD 11.44 million. The urgency of the matter and the firm's extensive expertise in both local and international disputes, including prior work for the EWA, justified the direct contracting decision.

In 2024, an amendment to the original agreement increased the contract value to accommodate a change order, underscoring the evolving nature of the legal requirements in this high-stakes case.

Commitment to Fairness and Transparency

The Bahrain Tender Board’s response underscores its dedication to ensuring that all government procurement processes are conducted with fairness, transparency, and strict adherence to the law. These measures aim to foster trust among suppliers and contractors while maintaining high standards in the execution of public projects.

For more details on Bahrain’s tender regulations and updates, visit the Tender Board’s official website or follow their announcements.