Minister of Social Affairs to Appointed Members: Cooperatives Serve Citizens, Not Personal Interests or Settling Scores
The Minister of Social Affairs emphasized that the law applies to everyone and she will not hesitate to take action against violators in cooperative societies.
Translated by Qiyas from القبس — Original source
Faisal Matar: Minister of Social Affairs, Family, and Childhood, Dr. Amthal Al-Huwaili, affirmed that the law applies to all, with no immunity for any violators in cooperative societies, whether appointed or elected. She stressed that the Ministry will not hesitate to take legal action against any board of directors or member whose violations are proven, up to dissolving the board when legal grounds exist.
Speaking during her meeting with appointed members of cooperative societies, Al-Huwaili stated that cooperatives were established to serve citizens, not to pursue personal interests or settle disputes. She emphasized that compliance with the Ministry’s directives, decisions, and cooperative work regulations is non-negotiable.
She explained that appointing members to the boards of directors of certain cooperatives is in application 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 stressed that appointed members do not enjoy any advantage over elected members; rather, they bear greater responsibility due to the trust placed in them by the state. She confirmed that the appointments were made for reform, follow-up on violations, and investigations, not to replace elected boards or diminish their role.
Al-Huwaili called for swift investigation into all violations and allegations, and for taking immediate legal action against those responsible without delay or exception. She directed intensifying field oversight of cooperatives and their branches, monitoring cleanliness, product quality, and investment facilities, and coordinating with relevant authorities regarding prices.
She also ordered the expedited implementation of a unified visual identity, adherence to the replacement policy, and Kuwaitization of jobs in accordance with approved regulations. She stressed the necessity of controlling administrative performance and job discipline, ensuring regular meetings of boards of directors, and following up on the implementation of their decisions.
Al-Huwaili announced the organization of a specialized training day to introduce the new cooperative work regulation and ensure its correct implementation.
