the procurement of 1,000,000 Molnupiravir capsules at Rs79.92 each, he will state if – (a) an inquiry is bei…
(No. B/77) Ms R. Daureeawo (Third Member for Rivière des Anguilles & Souillac) asked the Minister of Health and Wellness whether, in regard to the procurement of 1,000,000 Molnupiravir capsules at Rs79.92 each, he will state if – (a) an inquiry is being conducted thereinto by his Ministry and, if so, indicate if the report will be made public, and (b) any Police enquiry has been initiated thereinto and/or case lodged before the court in relation thereto.
Madam Speaker, I am informed that on 07 December 2021, the Ministry awarded a contract to CPN Distributors Ltd. through emergency procurement method for the supply of 999,000 capsules of Molnupiravir at a total price of Rs79,840,000.80, that is, at Rs79.92 per unit. I am also informed that no enquiry was conducted at the level of the Ministry in this case. As of mid-December 2021, the then Independent Commission Against Corruption had started an investigation on contracts awarded for the procurement of Molnupiravir tablets for the treatment of COVID-19 patients. With regard to part (b) of the question, I am informed that the Police are not enquiring into any case relating to the procurement of Molnupiravir capsules. However, there is an ongoing investigation at the level of the Financial Crimes Commission, formerly ICAC. At this stage, no formal charge has yet been lodged before any law court.
Thank you. Hon. Second Member for Rivière des Anguilles and Souillac! CONSTITUENCY NO. 13 – DRAINS MAINTENANCE