At a meeting of the Jogorku Kenesh, the deputies unanimously supported the draft law amending the Law of the Kyrgyz Republic "On Public Procurement," which was reviewed in three readings. Minister of Economy and Commerce Bakyt Sydykov emphasized that the goal of the new regulations is to optimize and simplify public procurement procedures. The document introduces the concept of a state assignment for the implementation of significant tasks defined by the state.
Deputy Dastan Bekeshev raised the issue of how state enterprises will select subcontractors. Sydykov explained that the responsibility for the targeted use of budget funds lies with the general contractor.
Bekeshev expressed concerns that such a scheme could increase the risks of corruption, citing the example of the "Ata-Turk" park. He pointed out that the fund created for the reconstruction of the park is supposed to raise 500 million soms, but so far only 180 million has been attracted. "How was the company that started the work chosen? There will be many questions. This draft law is better called a state assignment," he said.
Justice Minister Ayaz Bayetova added that the current state of affairs does not protect against dishonest actions. He agreed that risks always exist and need to be minimized. Bayetova also noted that the draft law mentions special state assignments, such as preparations for the World Nomad Games and SCO events. He emphasized that each company should have internal rules to help identify and manage risks, and the Ministry of Economy can develop a standard code regulating the interaction between subcontractors and state institutions.
The Ministry of Economy proposes to introduce the concept of state assignments in the following areas:
- culture and tourism;
- education, science, and healthcare;
- events conducted by the Presidential Administration;
- construction, repair, and reconstruction of international highways;
- creation and development of fixed assets and sectors of the economy;
- official events with the participation of the president, speaker, and prime minister.
Sydykov noted that these amendments would reduce timeframes and costs, as well as minimize negative factors and reduce the level of bureaucracy.
