By Ibrahim Karim Bangura (Tanko)
Under the leadership of Minister Melrose Karminty, the Social Welfare Ministry has been described as the main hub of endemic corruption amongst Ministries, Department and Agencies (MDAs) since 2018 to date.
On Tuesday, August 5, 2025, the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) boss, Francis Ben Kaifala, confirmed to Radio Democracy 98.1FM ‘Gud Morning Salone’ show that Melrose Karminty and others are under ACC probe for investigations ranging from misuse of office, abuse of power, and personal use of donor and state funds meant for the needy were allegedly systematically diverted to some individuals’ accounts, contrary to the law.
Commissioner Kaifala stated that the investigation is at an advanced stage, indicating that significant progress has been made in uncovering possible misconduct.
The details surrounding the case have drawn considerable public attention, as the implications of the investigation could impact not only the minister but also the broader governance of social welfare services of the state.
According to the Director of Public Education and External Outreach, Lawyer Abubakarr Turay, the investigation focuses on allegations of abuse of office, raising concerns about the integrity of the minister’s actions in her official capacity.
Meanwhile, the former Commissioner of the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities, Dr. Vandy Konneh, and the disabled community have called on President Bio to send minister Karminty on leave to prevent her from interfering with. The leave appeal also aims to ensure a fair and impartial investigative process, allowing the ACC to conduct its inquiries without any undue influence or interference from the minister’s office.
Some citizens are proposing that there may be deeper issues at play between the Ministry of Social Welfare and the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities, issues that could worsen the current inquiry.
Reflecting on broader concerns about accountability and transparency in the governance system, the outcome of this investigation will likely have lasting implications, not only for minister Melrose Karminty but also for public trust in the institutions responsible for social welfare and disability rights in the nation.
However, minister Melrose Karminty also made allegations against the then Commissioner of the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities on corruption and undue activities during his tenure.
