Lewis calls for answers on VROMI garbage tender and possible no-confidence motion

Nation Opportunity Wealth MP Lyndon Lewis called on governing coalition members to seek a documented explanation from Minister Patrice Gumbs about changes to the Ministry of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure’s 2026-2029 garbage collection tender. Lewis said coalition members should consider a motion of no confidence if serious failures at the ministry remain unresolved.

Lewis said concerns raised by bidders include a change allowing individual companies to receive two collection parcels rather than one, the cancellation and retendering of contracts, and assessments of bidders’ equipment, staffing, experience and financial capacity. He said the concerns require examination but do not by themselves establish wrongdoing. Government has said tender scores remain subject to verification and are not final contract awards.

Lewis said Gumbs should account for the changes between the original and revised tenders, explain the reasons for them and identify safeguards intended to ensure contractors have the resources and capacity to meet their obligations. He said coalition members should assess the minister’s performance without allowing political relationships or coalition agreements to determine their response.

Lewis said shortcomings that can be corrected should be addressed through an improvement plan with measurable objectives, deadlines and results. If Gumbs cannot effectively carry out his duties, Lewis said coalition partners should encourage him to resign. If serious failures continue and confidence in the minister cannot be sustained, he said coalition members should be prepared to initiate or support a no-confidence motion.