The Mauritius police have confirmed a contentious Rs 21,450,000 footwear contract with Banker Shoes Ltd, following the dismissal of a legal challenge by the Independent Review Panel (IRP). The contract, which was launched on May 22, 2026, by the Office of the Commissioner of Police, aimed to procure 26,000 pairs of Derby shoes for constables and sergeants. Three companies submitted bids, with Banker Shoes Ltd ultimately being awarded the contract at a rate of Rs 825 per pair, excluding VAT.
The unsuccessful bidder, Knight Trading Agency Co. Ltd, had contested the decision, citing three main objections: material composition, the absence of a showroom model, and the grounds for its disqualification. Knight Trading claimed that Banker Shoes' shoe soles were made of PVC, rather than the mandatory rubber required by the tender specifications. However, the IRP dismissed this argument after Banker Shoes presented an independent laboratory certificate confirming rubber soles.
The IRP also addressed Knight Trading's complaint that no model shoe was exhibited for inspection prior to bidding. A tender addendum dated June 11, 2026, explicitly stated that "no sample is exhibited for inspection," requiring bidders to rely entirely on written specifications. This addendum was a crucial factor in the IRP's decision, as it clarified the expectations for bidders.
The primary justification for Knight Trading's rejection hinged on a manufacturing detail. Tender specifications mandated that each shoe must feature the month and year of manufacture engraved on the side of the sole. Knight Trading's sample lacked this inscription, which the IRP considered a major deviation from the tender requirements. The Panel emphasized that the requirement contained no language indicating a postponement, unlike other clauses in the same document.
The IRP reiterated that its legal scope is restricted to assessing whether the contested decision aligns with tender regulations, statutory law, and the material originally presented to evaluators. Although the police submission response was filed out of time, the IRP noted that Knight Trading did not object and instead argued on the merits, enabling a full review. This allowed the IRP to thoroughly examine the case and make an informed decision.
With the appeal conclusively dismissed, Knight Trading has forfeited half of its deposited security bond, while the remaining 50% will be refunded. The confirmation of the contract with Banker Shoes Ltd brings an end to the contentious bidding process, which had been disputed by Knight Trading Agency Co. Ltd. The police can now proceed with the procurement of the footwear, which is intended for use by constables and sergeants.
The Independent Review Panel's decision demonstrates its commitment to upholding the tender regulations and ensuring that the procurement process is fair and transparent. The IRP's role in resolving disputes and ensuring compliance with statutory law is crucial in maintaining the integrity of the procurement process in Mauritius. The police footwear deal is expected to be completed as scheduled, with the 26,000 pairs of Derby shoes being delivered to the Mauritius police.
Key points
- The Independent Review Panel dismissed a legal challenge from Knight Trading Agency Co. Ltd, confirming the Rs 21,450,000 police footwear contract with Banker Shoes Ltd.
- The contract, which was launched on May 22, 2026, aimed to procure 26,000 pairs of Derby shoes for constables and sergeants at a rate of Rs 825 per pair, excluding VAT.
- Knight Trading Agency Co. Ltd forfeited half of its deposited security bond after its appeal was dismissed, while the remaining 50% will be refunded.
