An inquiry committee has uncovered massive financial irregularities in the Zakat fund, exposing misappropriations worth millions. The findings have led to recommendations for strict action against officials implicated in the corruption.
The committee, formed in October 2024, investigated allegations of embezzlement by district administration officials and the local Zakat committee chairman. After an initial review confirmed suspicious transactions, the case was referred to the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) for further investigation.
Reports of misconduct included the creation of 185 allegedly illegal local Zakat committees. The inquiry report, now forwarded to the Interior Ministry, has urged the FIA to conduct a thorough probe and initiate criminal proceedings against those involved.
It also proposed suspending the current Zakat and Ushr Committee, appointing an administrator, and holding elections within six months while barring the existing officials from contesting.
Additional recommendations included a forensic audit of fraudulent checks, a special audit to determine the extent of misappropriation and verification of beneficiaries through biometric records.
The report also suggested restructuring the district Zakat office, ensuring proper staffing, and directing an audit officer to review fund allocations to hospitals and institutions within two months.