Social Affairs Minister dismisses cooperative board members over serious violations

In a decisive move aimed at reinforcing accountability within the cooperative sector, Minister of Social Affairs, Family and Childhood Affairs Dr. Amthal Al-Huwailah has ordered the dismissal of four members of a cooperative society’s board of directors following the discovery of serious administrative and financial irregularities.

The decision came following intensive inspection and monitoring operations conducted by the ministry’s specialized control teams, which uncovered violations deemed severe enough to warrant legal action.

In a statement, Dr Al-Huwailah confirmed that those responsible have been referred to the Public Prosecution to initiate the necessary legal proceedings.

The minister explained that the scope of accountability extended beyond the cooperative’s board. Several supervisors and employees from the Inspection and Control Department at the Ministry of Social Affairs have also been referred for investigation after findings pointed to negligence in carrying out their official responsibilities, reports Al-Rai daily.

In addition, the ministry has suspended all dealings with the auditing firm contracted by the cooperative, pending further review.

Dr Al-Huwailah emphasized that the measures reflect the ministry’s firm commitment to strengthening governance standards, enhancing transparency, and safeguarding integrity across cooperative institutions.

She stressed that public funds and shareholders’ contributions are a red line, and that any practices undermining trust in the cooperative system will be met with strict consequences.

She further affirmed that the ministry will continue its close oversight of cooperative societies nationwide, pledging uncompromising enforcement of laws and regulations governing cooperative work. Legal action, she said, will be pursued against any party proven to have violated regulations or failed in their duties.

Despite the enforcement actions, Dr Al-Huwailah reassured shareholders that services provided by the cooperative will continue without disruption, underscoring that corrective measures are designed to protect members’ interests while preserving the stability and credibility of the cooperative sector.