APPLE-C, Infrastructure, Economic Update, Transport

Corruption in the Electronic Platform of the Traffic and Vehicle Author

13:29 | 31 October 2023LIMS output
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Corruption in the Electronic Platform

Under the banner of Program APPLE C (Apply Public Procurement Law to End Corruption), a recent investigative study conducted by LIMS has unveiled a concerning reality within the Department of Motor Registry. The spotlight is on INKRIPT, the entity managing Lebanon’s electronic traffic and vehicle system, as it takes drastic measures that run afoul of legal protocols.

In a bold move, INKRIPT, in violation of the law that prohibits the suspension of public services under any circumstance, has locked the system, concealed passwords, and prohibited the issuance of licenses and plate numbers. The company’s actions are allegedly aimed at gaining leverage in negotiations with the government over the exchange rate used for payment of its dues. INKRIPT seeks a revision of amounts owed due to the sharp deterioration of the Lebanese pound’s exchange rate.

While there is a legitimate argument for amending laws to account for exchange rate fluctuations, encouraging private companies to engage in public tenders during times of currency instability, the company’s chosen approach sets a perilous precedent by holding the population hostage.

LIMS contends that the root cause of this issue lies in the government’s tendency to contract monopolies for the delivery of public services, granting a single company undue control over the entire population. The study suggests that introducing multiple companies into the motor registry services landscape would significantly mitigate the risk of a complete system shutdown. This underscores the importance of dismantling monopolies held by service providers, paving the way for fair competition that ensures the provision of the best prices and services, even in challenging times.

The chronic issue of government contracts being consistently awarded to monopolies due to corruption and undisclosed kickbacks has been exacerbated by the ongoing economic collapse. This, in turn, dissuades honest companies from engaging in tenders in Lebanon. The proposed solution involves opening up the market to genuine competition, setting the stage for much-needed reforms.

  • LIMSLB Exclusive: INKRIPT Stops The Operating System, Hides Passwords, And Prevents The Issuance Of Market And Car License Books To The Lebanese People, October 20, 2023: Limslb, Article AR