KUWAIT CITY, July 2: Minister of Social Affairs, Family and Childhood Affairs, and Minister of State for Youth Affairs, Dr. Amthal Al-Huwailah, has taken a pioneering step towards promoting transparency and integrity within the ministry. In a groundbreaking move, Al-Huwailah issued a ministerial decision to establish a committee tasked with receiving and investigating suspicions of money laundering across all entities, bodies, and sectors under the ministry’s supervision. Describing the decision as a strategic initiative aimed at enhancing transparency, accountability, and oversight, Minister Al-Huwailah emphasized that it provides citizens with an avenue to report any suspected cases within the ministry’s purview.

This proactive approach not only aims to bolster financial and economic security in Kuwait but also aims to elevate Kuwait’s standing as a leader in combating corruption. The newly formed committee is envisioned as a pivotal tool in combating financial crimes and safeguarding the national economy from the detrimental impacts of money laundering. Its responsibilities include receiving and investigating reports, culminating in referrals to the Public Prosecution Regulatory The committee’s membership comprises various regulatory and specialized bodies dedicated to combating corruption, money laundering, and monitoring public funds. Al-Huwailah underscored that the committee’s establishment marks a significant milestone in the ministry’s pursuit of its vision and goals to deliver exemplary services and foster trust between citizens and government institutions. She urged individuals with information about suspected corruption or money laundering within the ministry’s jurisdiction to come forward and contribute to these efforts.

This initiative reflects Kuwait’s commitment to upholding integrity and transparency in governance, aligning with royal directives to combat corruption comprehensively. In a recent development at the Ministries Complex, the management of councils and committees will ensure that all reports are treated with utmost confidentiality. This initiative underscores a commitment to robust governance and effective oversight within the complex. In a related announcement, Minister Al-Huwailah highlighted the significant role of cooperative societies in Kuwait’s societal framework. Currently, 77 registered societies are operating under the Cooperative Societies Law, encompassing various sectors such as consumer societies, agricultural societies like Al-Wafra and Abdali, livestock cooperative societies, the Kuwaitis Savings Fund, the Sadu Crafts Society, and unions representing consumer and productive cooperative societies.

The total number of shareholders in these societies amounts to 498,109, reflecting the broad participation and support of these cooperative entities within Kuwaiti society. Addressing a concerning incident, Minister Al-Huwailah also addressed the circulation of a video depicting a child tied with ropes and pulling a vehicle on social media platforms. She promptly referred the matter to the Public Prosecution and directed the Supreme Council for Family Affairs to take immediate action to protect children from violence and exploitation. Emphasizing the importance of combating violence against children, she stressed the necessity of comprehensive measures by the law to safeguard their well-being. These initiatives highlight Kuwait’s commitment to upholding societal values, protecting vulnerable groups, and fostering accountable governance across various sectors

By Fares Al-Abdan
Al-Seyassah/Arab Times Staff