Minister of Islamic Affairs Dr. Ahmed Zahir has explained the state's decision to contract MediFlex instead of IGMH to facilitate PCR testing for Hajj pilgrims.
According to the minister, the government moved ahead with contracting the private company owing to cheaper prices compared to the state hospital.
The minister confirms this as a response to a query by central Maafannu MP Ibrahim Rasheed. The lawmaker inquired from the minister if the authority had contracted a private third-party to facilitate PCR testing for pilgrims, after it was already arranged at state-run hospitals by Hajj Corporation.
The minister's letter claims it had sought for a private third-party in accordance with the procurement policy of Hajj Corporation; another state owned company.
Out of the bidders, MediFlex offered the lowest price at a rate of MVR 200 per pilgrim, whereas Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH) offered MVR 700 per pilgrim.
Hajj Corporation had attempted to conduct PCR testing through local law enforcement assistance. However, Maldives Police Service lacked appropriate chemicals for the procedure. Attempts to acquire the said chemical in assistance with Health Protection Agency (HPA) failed.
The lawmaker had also inquired if members of Adaalath Party and Islamic Ministry's staff were assigned as aides to pilgrims. Responding to this, the minister had claimed, via the same letter, that the aides were selected through a publicly announced interview - with applicants achieving highest scored being shortlisted.
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