Al-Hawila: Appointments in cooperative societies' boards to rectify situations, address violations, and enhance governance

Dr. Amthal Al-Huwail, Minister of Social Affairs, Family, and Childhood, affirmed that the appointment of members to the boards of directors of certain cooperative societies is in implementation of legal provisions and the activation of Article (35), with the aim of rectifying situations, addressing violations, and enhancing oversight and governance, thereby safeguarding shareholders’ funds and consumers’ rights.

Al-Huwail stressed that appointed members do not enjoy any privilege over elected members; rather, they bear greater responsibility due to the trust placed in them by the state. She emphasized that the appointments were made for reform purposes, to follow up on violations and investigations, and not to replace elected boards or diminish their role.

She further stated that compliance with the ministry’s directives, decisions, and cooperative work regulations is non-negotiable, underscoring the need for swift investigation of all violations and suspicions, and the prompt imposition of legal measures against those responsible, without delay or exception.

Al-Huwail directed the intensification of field oversight over cooperative societies and their branches, monitoring cleanliness, the quality of goods, and investment facilities, coordinating with relevant authorities regarding prices, accelerating the implementation of a unified visual identity, and adhering to the replacement policy and Kuwaitization of jobs in accordance with approved regulations.

She also stressed the necessity of regulating administrative performance and professional discipline, ensuring regular meetings of boards of directors, and following up on the implementation of decisions. She announced the organization of a specialized training day to introduce the new cooperative work regulations and ensure their correct application.

Concluding her remarks, Al-Huwail emphasized that cooperative societies exist to serve citizens, not to pursue personal interests or settle disputes. She stressed that the ministry would not hesitate to take legal action against any board of directors or member found in violation, up to dissolution when legal grounds exist. She affirmed that the law applies to all, with no immunity for any violator, whether appointed or elected.