KUWAIT CITY, July 17: The Ministry of Social Affairs, following directives from the Council of Ministers, is developing an emergency plan to ensure the provision of basic needs and materials for citizens and residents in light of current regional circumstances. According to ministry sources, the plan aims to address potential disruptions in the supply of essential and complementary food commodities across central markets and cooperative branches nationwide.

The Ministry of Social Affairs, which oversees the work, accounts, and purchasing policies of cooperative societies, is emphasizing the importance of food security amid these uncertain times. Cooperative societies are a critical source of food and commodity stocks in the country, and the ministry's plan aims to secure these supplies.

Key elements of the plan include the formation of an emergency team to monitor food and commodity supplies and review existing emergency plans from relevant government agencies. This team will also involve experienced individuals from past crises, such as the COVID-19 outbreak, to enhance the plan's effectiveness. The ministry's efforts underscore the sensitivity of the current situation and the need to ensure food security, particularly for critical commodities and supplies.

In a related development, several shareholders of a cooperative society in the Hawalli Governorate have filed a complaint with the Minister of Social Affairs, Family and Childhood Affairs, and Minister of State for Youth Affairs, Dr. Amthal Al-Huwailah. They expressed concern over the ministry's decision to dismiss some board members despite an investigation committee's report indicating suspected violations.

The shareholders are surprised that these members continue to manage the society's funds even after being referred to court. The charges against them include failing to adhere to financial protocols, not following proper cooperative purchasing policies, and violating contract regulations. The shareholders are urging Minister Al-Huwailah to suspend these members' administrative powers to protect the society's funds and reputation until the case is resolved.

In an administrative update, the Acting Undersecretary of the Ministry of Social Affairs, Dr. Khaled Al-Ajmi, issued Administrative Decision No. 2386 of 2024. The decision assigns Talal Al-Khudair, Supervisor of the Research and Statistics Department in the Planning and Administrative Development Sector, to carry out the duties of the Director of the Department.