PACI awaits SAB nod on KD 23 mn smart ID deal
KUWAIT CITY, March 8: The Public Authority for Civil Information (PACI) is awaiting the approval of the State Audit Bureau (SAB) to sign a contract for the supply of smart civil identification card models and packaging requirements at a cost of KD 23.005 million for three years. On Feb 24, PACI addressed SAB in a bid to resubmit the request for approval in preparation for the implementation of the contract terms. PACI had earlier obtained approval from the Central Agency for Public Tenders (CAPT) to sign a contract directly with a company based on Article 19 of Public Tenders Law No. 49/2016. Majority of the CAPT members voted in favor; while three members, including the representative of the Ministry of Finance, voted against. It is worth mentioning that CAPT rejected the request of PACI to reconsider and approve the direct contracting for the supply of smart civil identification card models based on Article 18 of the Public Tenders Law; which states 'the relevant party may undertake the procurement process through limited tender or direct order, provided that permission is obtained from the agency.'
Al-Seyassah/Arab Times Staff
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