-says case of `ghost’ guard was addressed
The Mahaica, Mahaicony, Abary-Agricultural Development Authority (MMA-ADA) yesterday rejected recent allegations made by APNU+AFC MP Vinceroy Jordan that there was massive corruption within the organization.
Jordan had said that there was a “massive corruption scheme” involving MMA-ADA staff. In a statement, the MMA-ADA said that his claim was without foundation.
Jordan alleged that there was an ongoing cover-up of financial misappropriation, stating, “Sources revealed that this corruption scheme has been active for a few years.”
However, the MMA-ADA asserted that all instances of misconduct are thoroughly investigated, with appropriate disciplinary actions taken when necessary. It said that an incident was recently uncovered and it was dealt with accordingly. It provided no further information on this “incident”.
The authority emphasized its commitment to transparency and integrity, noting that recent investigations have been conducted and done appropriately.
Among the accusations, Jordan specifically referenced a supervisor accused of misappropriating funds related to a ghost security guard. The MMA-ADA said that this matter was promptly addressed, and the Board of Directors conducted a thorough investigation, leading to decisive action against the supervisor involved.
Additionally, Jordan called for an investigation of matters related to Vice-Chairman Zaid Rafoodeen. The MMA-ADA responded that Rafoodeen, a longstanding rice farmer, has occupied his land legitimately and has expressed intentions to pursue legal action to defend his reputation.
The MMA-ADA underscored its mission to support farmers and maintain accountability, contrasting its performance over the past four years with the previous administration, which it said failed to serve the farming community adequately.
The MMA-ADA highlighted improvements made since the current administration took office, including substantial increases in agricultural output, regular consultations with farmers, and enhanced drainage and irrigation services. The authority has emphasized its dedication to fostering constructive dialogue and professionalism in its operations.
In light of these accusations, the MMA-ADA urged Jordan and others to seek factual information rather than propagate sensational narratives that could mislead the public and tarnish the reputation of dedicated staff and stakeholders.
In a separate statement on the allegations against the MMA-ADA, the Ministry of Agriculture assured stakeholders and the general public that “any misconduct will be thoroughly investigated, and the necessary disciplinary actions will be taken. The records are there to be verified”.
It said that an incident was recently uncovered and it was dealt with accordingly, and the staff was fired. The ministry also did not provide any information on this incident.
