Conflict of Interest in BNF's Core Banking Procurement
The article discusses a conflict of interest involving Adriana Brítez, the Technology Advisor at the Banco Nacional de Fomento (BNF). Previously a project manager at ITTI, a subsidiary of Ueno Holding, she is now overseeing the procurement process for a core banking system, raising concerns about favoritism towards her former employer, which is linked to the President of Paraguay, Santiago Peña.
The BNF is currently soliciting bids for a core banking system with a reference price of nearly $19 million. ITTI submitted a proposal close to this amount, prompting questions about the integrity of the bidding process. Critics speculate that the procurement may be biased in favor of Ueno Holding due to Brítez's prior association with the company.
Despite attempts to reach Brítez for comment, she has not responded. The BNF has defended the procurement process, asserting its commitment to transparency and fair competition among bidders.