Yemen Aid Agencies Embroiled in Corruption Scandal
Widespread Corruption and Nepotism Exposed
A recent report has revealed widespread corruption and nepotism within two leading international aid agencies operating in Yemen, casting a shadow over their efforts to provide humanitarian assistance to war-torn civilians.
WHO Office Plagued by Corruption
According to sources close to the matter, the World Health Organization (WHO) office in Yemen was plagued by corruption under the leadership of Dr. Ahmed Zagaria. The former director brought in junior staff members from his native Philippines and promoted them to high-paying positions despite lacking the necessary qualifications.
- Two Filipino nationals were appointed to senior roles, but their main responsibility was allegedly taking care of Zagaria’s dog.
- This move created “incompetent staff with heavy salaries” that undermined the quality of work and monitoring of projects, allowing for numerous loopholes for corruption.
- Zagaria approved suspicious contracts without competitive bidding or documentation, resulting in local firms overcharging for services.
UNICEF Embroiled in Controversy
The UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) is also embroiled in controversy. An investigation has been launched into allegations that a staffer named Khurram Javed allowed a senior Houthi official to use an agency vehicle, potentially putting it at risk of being targeted by airstrikes.
- Javed was known for his close ties with Houthi security agencies and had boasted about using his connections to prevent UNICEF auditors from entering the country.
- He has been transferred to another office as part of the ongoing probe.
Concerns Over Nepotism and Corruption
The allegations of corruption within international aid agencies in Yemen are deeply concerning, given the critical role these organizations play in providing humanitarian assistance to civilians caught in the midst of conflict.
- “This is scandalous to any agency and ruins the impartiality of UN,” said an aid official, who spoke on condition of anonymity. “It’s unclear how many staffers may be aiding combatants, but it’s clear that close ties between U.N. staff and local officials on both sides of the conflict are common.”
- The United Nations has acknowledged the allegations and launched an investigation into the matter.
Call for Greater Transparency and Accountability
As the international community continues to provide aid to Yemen, these allegations serve as a stark reminder of the need for greater transparency and accountability within humanitarian organizations operating in conflict zones.
- “It’s time for the UN to take action and hold its staff accountable for their actions,” said another aid official.