Justice delayed is development denied

The P300 million internal roads tender is a case study. A bidder’s complaint revealed alleged irregularities. A tribunal ordered a re-evaluation.

The council and the initial winner appealed to the High Court. Now, the Ministry of Local Government and Traditional Affairs, frustrated by the delay, writes to the council suggesting the tender be cancelled, and an alternative procurement model be explored, while the matter is still before the courts. This circular legal battle has paralysed a critical project, leaving severe congestion and hindered economic activity in its wake.