Suriname’s Minister of Social Affairs and Housing Diana Pokie has revealed extensive and organized corruption within the Moni Karta program, the government’s flagship anti-poverty initiative. During a high-level government briefing, Pokie disclosed that both ministry officials and employees of the Surinamese Postal Savings Bank (SPSB) are implicated in what she described as a deeply rooted pattern of systematic misconduct.
The minister confirmed that disciplinary measures, including terminations, have already been implemented at the banking institution following the detection of irregularities. While exact numbers of implicated individuals remain undisclosed pending official documentation from SPSB, Pokie emphasized the complexity of the scheme that cannot be resolved within months.
Multiple investigations are currently underway, with several formal complaints already filed with authorities. In a significant operational shift, employees directly involved with matters under investigation will be placed on mandatory leave starting January 2nd, effectively suspending an entire department and potentially disrupting service continuity.
Pokie asserted that all necessary evidence exists to prosecute offenders once investigations conclude. The coordinated response involves multiple government agencies working to address the corruption while preventing further harm to vulnerable citizens who depend on the financial assistance program.
The minister stressed that restoring public trust in the welfare system remains the highest priority, with protection of legitimate beneficiaries guiding all subsequent actions. The government faces the dual challenge of rooting out corruption while maintaining essential services for Suriname’s most economically disadvantaged populations.