KARACHI: Transparency International Pakistan has formally raised concerns over alleged violations of the Sindh Public Procurement Regulatory Authority (SPPRA) Rules 2010 in the award of a contract for the recruitment of 970 vaccinators (BPS-06) by the Directorate of Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI), Health Department, Government of Sindh.
According to an official letter dated May 15, 2026, addressed to Sindh Health Minister Dr. Azra Fazal Pechuho, Transparency International Pakistan stated that it had received a complaint alleging irregularities in the procurement process for the recruitment exercise.
The complaint alleged that the EPI Sindh had invited request for quotation/proposals for recruitment of 970 vacant vaccinator posts on September 24, 2025, and that Sindh Testing Service (STS), reportedly the lowest bidder at Rs425 per candidate/test, had submitted a financially competitive bid along with the required professional competence and operational experience.
However, the complaint claimed that despite being the lowest bidder, the contract was awarded to National Testing Service (NTS) at a comparatively higher rate, allegedly in violation of procurement rules.
Transparency International Pakistan, after reviewing the allegations, stated that prima facie the concerns appeared valid. The organization further pointed out that the Directorate EPI allegedly failed to publish the comparative bid statement, evaluation criteria, technical assessment, and basis for contract award, which it said was contrary to SPPRA rules governing transparency and public disclosure.
Citing SPPRA Rule 45, Transparency International noted that procuring agencies are required to announce bid evaluation results, including reasons for acceptance or rejection of bids, on the authority’s and procuring agency’s websites, while also informing all bidders at least seven days before awarding the contract.
The anti-corruption watchdog also referred to SPPRA Rule 31(5), which requires the Complaint Redressal Committee to announce its decision within seven days upon receiving a complaint, and bars award of contract until the complaint is decided.
Transparency International Pakistan has recommended that the Sindh Health Minister examine the allegations and, if found correct, direct re-invitation of the tender in accordance with SPPRA rules.
Copies of the letter were also sent to the Chief Minister Sindh, Chief Secretary Sindh, Secretary Health Sindh, Project Director EPI Sindh, and the Registrar of the Sindh High Court for information and necessary action.
