Al-Hawila: 'Cooperatives' exist to serve citizens, not to pursue personal interests or settle scores
The Minister of Social Affairs and Minister of State for Children's Affairs affirmed that appointments to cooperative boards aim to reform and address violations.
Translated by Qiyas from الجريدة — Original source
Dr. Amthal Al-Huwail, Minister of Social Affairs, Family, and Childhood, confirmed that the appointment of members to the boards of directors of certain cooperative societies is in implementation of legal provisions and activation of Article 35, with the aim of rectifying situations, addressing violations, and enhancing oversight and governance, thereby safeguarding shareholders’ funds and consumers’ rights. She emphasized that cooperative societies were established to serve citizens, not to pursue personal interests or settle disputes.
Speaking during her meeting with the appointed members of the boards of directors of cooperative societies, Al-Huwail stated that “the Ministry will not hesitate to take legal action against any board of directors or member found to have committed a violation, up to dissolution when legal grounds exist.” She reaffirmed that the law applies to all, with no immunity for any violator, whether appointed or elected.
Al-Huwail stressed that appointed members do not enjoy any privilege over their elected counterparts; rather, they bear greater responsibility due to the trust placed in them by the state. She clarified that the appointments were made to implement reforms, monitor violations, and conduct investigations, not to replace elected members or diminish their role. She underscored that compliance with the Ministry’s directives, decisions, and cooperative work regulations is non-negotiable, emphasizing 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 of cooperative societies and their branches, monitoring cleanliness, product quality, and investment facilities, coordinating with relevant authorities on pricing, accelerating the implementation of a unified visual identity, and adhering to the replacement policy and Kuwaitization of jobs in accordance with approved regulations. She stressed the necessity of ensuring sound administrative performance, professional discipline, regularity of board meetings, and follow-up on the implementation of decisions. She also announced the organization of a specialized training day to introduce the new cooperative work regulations and ensure their correct application.
