Minister of Social Affairs: No preferential treatment for appointed cooperative members over elected ones; accountability applies to all without exception

Kuwait – Minister of Social Affairs, Family and Childhood, Dr. Amthal Al-Huwaili, confirmed on Wednesday that appointed members of the boards of directors of cooperative societies do not enjoy any preferential treatment over elected members, and that accountability applies to everyone without exception. She made these remarks during a meeting with appointed members of the boards of directors of several cooperative societies, emphasizing that these appointments are in implementation of legal provisions and in activation of Article (35), with the aim of rectifying situations, addressing violations, and strengthening oversight and governance to safeguard shareholders’ funds and consumers’ rights.

Dr. Al-Huwaili stressed that appointed members bear greater responsibility due to the trust placed in them by the State, clarifying that the appointments were made for reform purposes, to monitor violations, and to conduct investigations, not to replace elected councils or diminish their role. She also underscored the necessity of complying with the ministry’s directives, decisions, and cooperative work regulations, and of promptly investigating all violations and allegations and taking legal action against those responsible without delay or exception.

She directed intensifying field oversight of cooperative societies and their branches, monitoring cleanliness, the quality of goods, and investment facilities, and coordinating with competent authorities regarding prices. Dr. Al-Huwaili also emphasized the importance of expediting the implementation of a unified visual identity, adhering to the substitution policy, and localizing jobs in accordance with approved regulations. She highlighted the need to regulate administrative performance, strengthen professional discipline, ensure regular meetings of boards of directors, and follow 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.

Dr. Al-Huwaili clarified that cooperative societies were established 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 to have committed violations, up to dissolution when legal grounds exist. She affirmed that the law is above all and that no one, whether appointed or elected, enjoys immunity from violations. (End) A.Y.S. / A.M.H.