The Chief Procurement Officer is putting his foot down on after the fact purchase requisitions.
A memo from Ti’alemasunu Dr Mikaele Etuale obtained by KHJ News serves notice to department and agency directors that effective October 1st. all After the Fact (ATF) requisitions will no longer be approved or processed.
The CPO said his office continues to receive purchase requisitions for goods and services that have been delivered without proper authorization.
He spelled out that the practice of soliciting vendors to supply goods or perform services without an approved Purchase Order or contract is a direct violation of the American Samoa Procurement Rules.
“In order to maintain the integrity of our rules and regulations,“ wrote Ti’alemasunu, “effective October 1, 2021, all After the Fact (ATF) requisitions will no longer be approved or processed. All ATF PR’s will be returned without consideration to the initiating department, and will be the personal financial responsibility of the Department Director or employee making the unauthorized purchase.”
The CPO said his September 23 memo shall also serve as notice to all vendors that the government will not be obligated for the cost of goods and services delivered without a valid Purchase Order or contract signed by the Office of Procurement.
He went on to say, “While our office is aware of your responsibility to ensure effective operations for your department or agency, we can no longer turn a blind eye to transactions that circumvent the procurement process. All PR’s are subject to procurement review and policies and procedures are in place to solicit goods and services for respective departments and agencies to ensure the continuity of government operations.”
The CPO pointed out that After the Fact purchases can be averted by involving the Office of Procurement.
“Our office is equipped to service the individual procurement needs of each ASG department and agency. Our staff can assist and advise on the rules and regulations that govern purchases and expenditures,” he wrote.
Directors were informed that the Office of Procurement will soon be conducting Procurement Training for all departments and agencies.
“Through our commitment and collaborative efforts, we can meet the goals and objectives set forth by our executive leaders.”
