Mombasa Times: Probe disabled fund scam, government told

July 31, 2012, Mombasa.

By EUGENE OMILO

Shariff Nassir Foundation chairman Mr. Abdulswamad Shariff Nassir has called for the prosecution of government and NGO officials alleged to have been implicated in the swirling of funds meant for the disabled population.

Mr. Abdulswamad who was reacting to recent press reports indicating how crooked officials have been stashing away government funds meant for people with disabilities said those whose organizations and parastatals have been mentioned in the scandal should step aside to allow for investigations into their conduct.

“We do not want to be seen to be judging anyone but it is procedural that officials mentioned in bad light by legitimate accusers should step aside to pave way for investigation,” he said.

“Those who are found to be clean can resume their duties and those who aren’t must face prosecution,” he added saying that is the only way to fight corruption and impunity.

He spoke at Ziwani school for the deaf in Spaki, Mombasa where his foundation donated food stuff for 14 different groups of people with disabilities.

Each of the groups received several bales of maize and wheat flour, beans, rice, cooking oil and dates.

While speaking at the same function, leaders of the physically challenged in Mombasa called on the government to move fast and take stern action against those who will be implicated in the scandal failure to which they will take to the streets to demand for justice.

Ms. Rahma Said Omar of Mombasa County Disabled Network and Mr. Paul Ochieng who is the spokesperson for the disabled in Mombasa said programmes meant for social protection of the marginalized have been misused to benefit a few individuals, a matter they said was unacceptable.

“Some people are using either us or orphaned children as a stepping stone to earn easy money. This is not right and we pray that the law catches up with their misdeeds,” said Mr. Ochieng’.

On her part, Ms. Omar said the revelations might discourage genuine sympathizers and well wishers from helping out the needy thinking their money will be misused by corrupt individuals to the detriment of those in need.

Mr. Abdulswamad called on the strict enforcement of laws meant to protect the vulnerable in the society.

He also appealed to the Muslim community to remember the needs of the disabled and the less fortunate population during the holy month of Ramandhan.