The Alliance For Change (AFC) is calling on small contractors to avoid being swayed by political loyalties when it comes to government contracts. Speaking at a public meeting over the weekend, AFC Presidential Candidate and Leader Nigel Hughes addressed the issue of contract distribution, particularly in communities like West Ruimveldt.
Hughes highlighted that while the government has been quick to award small contracts to residents in the past year, this comes after years of benefiting “friends and family” of the ruling party. He criticized the government for only now offering small contracts to local contractors while they have been profiting from the oil industry since 2020.
“Remember, they make money in 2020. They make money in 2021. They make money in 2022. They make money in 2023. Halfway in 2024, they said they’ll give you a little contract for $2.5 million. And you feel that you owe them something,” Hughes stated. He emphasized that many residents have been exploited and misled, suggesting that recent contract offers are an attempt to secure political loyalty.
Hughes pointed out that despite the country earning over $1.5 billion per day from the oil industry, many citizens have not felt the benefits in their daily lives. He questioned whether improvements in living conditions, education, and public services are evident. “Ask yourself if after five years, you’re feeling this $1.5 billion a day,” he urged, emphasizing the lack of visible impact on the community.
He also condemned the preferential treatment given to those close to the government, who have secured large contracts totaling hundreds of millions of dollars, while small contractors receive minimal sums. Hughes promised that an AFC-led government would reform the procurement system to ensure equitable access to the country’s resources for all contractors.
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