In December, residents of South Ruimveldt were left without power for several hours after several poles belonging to Guyana Power and Light (GPL) toppled along Aubrey Barker Road, South Ruimveldt, Georgetown.
Addressing the situation on Thursday, Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo revealed that a joint investigation by the Ministry of Public Works and GPL had been completed. The findings led to a crucial recommendation – the contractor responsible for the compromised works should be blacklisted.
The cause of the disruption was linked to ongoing road and drainage works in the area, which had compromised the foundation of the infrastructure supporting GPL’s network.
Jagdeo did not reveal the identity of the contractor to be blacklisted.
While the investigation is still ongoing, further disciplinary action is expected to be taken against individuals involved in the incident, with a specific focus on those at the engineering and procurement levels.
Dr. Jagdeo was vocal about the need for stringent action.
“We need to take firm actions against these individuals. There are some people at the engineering and procurement levels who have been engaged in some very troubling behaviour,” he stated.
He went on to highlight the issue of corruption, noting that several procurement officers had been involved in unethical practices.
“We have found instances where procurement officers in some agencies are involved in the most egregious activities. Let me make it clear: If any engineer or procurement officer solicits a bribe, or offers a contract in exchange for money, or accepts shoddy work if you pay them, report it. You can send an anonymous letter, and it will be thoroughly investigated,” Dr. Jagdeo said.
He emphasised that such practices would not be tolerated and promised to take immediate action against any individuals found guilty of misconduct. The Vice President disclosed that he was personally investigating two instances where procurement officers were implicated in dubious dealings.
“We are looking at this matter very seriously. Some individuals are being very clever in their actions, but we are determined to uncover the truth,” Dr. Jagdeo concluded.
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