In response to directives from the Council of Ministers, the Ministry of Social Affairs is formulating an emergency plan to ensure the provision of essential food and materials for citizens and residents amidst current regional uncertainties. This initiative aims to mitigate potential disruptions in the supply chain of essential and complementary food commodities across central markets and cooperative branches nationwide.

The Ministry of Social Affairs, which oversees the operations, accounts, and purchasing policies of cooperative societies, is emphasizing the importance of maintaining food security during these uncertain times. Cooperative societies are pivotal in maintaining food and commodity stocks, and the ministry’s plan aims to secure these vital supplies.

The emergency plan includes the establishment of a dedicated team to monitor food and commodity supplies and review existing emergency protocols from relevant government agencies. This team will also incorporate experienced individuals from past crises, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, to enhance the plan’s effectiveness. These efforts underscore the sensitivity of the current situation and the necessity to ensure the availability of 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 retain certain 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 allegations include non-compliance with financial protocols, improper cooperative purchasing practices, and contract regulation breaches. 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 appoints 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.