The so-called tenders...

The so-called tenders and quotation calls
Have always been of certain shortfalls;
Lowest bidder in terms of price is selected
All others, no matter how best, are rejected

Whether it’s for works, services or supply of goods,
Rule books, latest, may appear to spur the moods
But, at a closer look, it’s old wine in a new bottle
And, for reasons best known to none, systems throttle!

There's my rate passed in time through the gate,
One in envelope marked original, the other marked duplicate,
Both contained in one more called the outer cover
With no bidder identified and sealed with burning rubber

Speaks the chairman about transparency and accountability;
Bid rejected without assigning reasons is no responsibility;
New committee with new members on corridors of power;
The brands of items, however, are not mentioned at this hour!

Page by page, each member signs the documents
As it’s just an opening committee without arguments;
With no one for assessment and award and no fixed date
Each bidder shall be waiting to hear his fate!