THE Zambia Public Procurement Authority says it has with immediate effect suspended Marshal’s Electronic Systems from participating in public procurement in Zambia for one year due to underperformance of contractual obligations.

In a statement, Tuesday, ZPPA public relations officer Nchimunya Muganya clarified that the suspension did not in any way limit the company from performing outstanding contracts which were entered into before the date of suspension.

“The Zambia Public Procurement Authority (ZPPA) has with immediate effect suspended Marshal’s Electronic Systems from participating in public procurement in Zambia for a period of one year for underperformance of contractual obligations. In exercise of the powers vested in the Authority under section 96 of the Public Procurement Act No. 8 of 2020 and Regulation 167 (3)(b) of the Public Procurement Regulations 2011, be advised that Marshal’s Electronic System of shop No. W14 Simonson Building Lusaka has been suspended from participating in public procurement in Zambia for a period of one (1) year with effect from 4th April, 2022,” Muganya said.

He warned procuring entities against conducting any new business with the company.

“All procuring entities (PEs) are expected to enforce the suspension by ensuring that they do not: (i) award contracts to Marshal’s Electronic System (ii) sale or issue solicitation documents to Marshal’s Electronic Systems or in any other way invite bids from the company and (iii) enter into any other dealings or communications with Marshal’s Electronic Systems except in respect of existing contracts signed prior to this suspension. The suspension includes any successor in interest including any entity which employs or is associated with any partners, directors or other officers considered as successors in interest,” Muganya guided.

He clarified that the suspension does not in any way limit the company from performing outstanding contracts entered into before the date of suspension.

“Further, the suspension does not in any way limit Marshal’s Electronic Systems from performing outstanding contracts that were entered into before the date of the suspension.PE’s are further urged not to enter into any new contracts with the company after the date of this circular and during the period that the suspension will be in force. ZPPA is therefore, notifying PE’s not to engage in any procurement process with the named company. To this effect ZPPA has issued circular No.7 of 2022 to all permanent secretaries and controlling officers, chief executive officers of parastatals and statutory bodies, all town clerks and council secretaries of local authorities,” said Muganya.