‘Hiding corrupt schemes’: The Cabinet of Ministers allowed the non-disclosure of information about defense procurements during martial law

The Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine has made changes to the public procurement rules. During martial law, it is now permitted not to publish information on defense procurements and not to disclose the locations of suppliers.

This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Economy of Ukraine.

The Cabinet of Ministers has expanded the list of reasons for procurement without using the electronic system. From now on, when necessary, procurements for the Armed Forces of Ukraine, military formations, higher military educational institutions, law enforcement agencies, the State Emergency Service, and “Ukrzaliznytsia” for the repair and restoration of equipment can be conducted without open tenders or an electronic catalog.

Additionally, for the safety of customers, suppliers, and contractors, customers are allowed not to specify the locality where the enterprise is located, only indicating the district or region. This will make it harder for opponents to find their location.

Moreover, the government has mandated that customers create a list of documents submitted by participants in the procurement procedure as two separate appendices to the tender documentation. Previously, such requirements could be included in any part of the tender documentation, making it difficult for participants to locate them.

Furthermore, customers are now allowed to purchase goods from partner countries with which Ukraine has concluded free public procurement agreements without restrictions.

“Procurements for urgent defense needs at the expense of local and other public budgets will be conducted without open tenders or an electronic catalog. Such contracts will be published in the electronic procurement system 90 days after the end or cancellation of the martial law regime,” said Deputy Minister of Economy Nadiia Bihun.

Procurements for the Armed Forces of Ukraine have been consistently marred by corruption scandals. For example, in June, there was a scandal over the Ministry of Defense purchasing plastic army canteens at prices at least three times higher than usual.