If an OCI exists, how should a contracting officer proceed with the RFP?

When an Organizational Conflict of Interest (OCI) is identified, it is essential for the contracting officer to prioritize the integrity of the procurement process and ensure that all parties are able to compete fairly. Cancelling the Request for Proposals (RFP) is the most appropriate course of action in this scenario. By doing so, the contracting officer eliminates the conflict entirely, which helps maintain public trust in the procurement process and compliance with ethical standards.

In situations where an OCI exists, proceeding with the RFP without addressing the conflict could compromise the fairness of the evaluation process and potentially lead to biased outcomes. Simply continuing with the evaluation or informing stakeholders while the RFP remains active does not adequately resolve the underlying issue that the conflict presents. Therefore, cancelling the RFP is a measure that not only addresses the current conflict but also allows for a reevaluation of the requirements and improvements in the process before issuing a new RFP, free from conflicts. This action upholds the principles of fair competition and protects the interests of both the government and the bidders.