SACCO members and the public can now report suspected fraud, theft, bribery and misuse of funds in regulated savings and credit cooperatives anonymously, as the regulator steps up efforts to protect members’ savings.
The Sacco Societies Regulatory Authority (SASRA) is urging members, employees, board members, suppliers and other stakeholders to report suspected wrongdoing, saying they do not need to prove allegations before making a disclosure.
In a whistleblower awareness campaign, the authority said information from insiders and members of the public could help uncover financial irregularities, strengthen accountability and prevent losses in SACCOs.
“Your information can help protect members’ savings and strengthen accountability,” SASRA said in its public awareness message.
The regulator said reports should be based on reasonable belief and provide as much detail as possible to help it assess the concerns and determine whether further action is necessary.
Among the issues members are encouraged to report are suspected theft or misuse of SACCO funds and assets, falsification of financial statements, bribery, demands for kickbacks, abuse of office and conflicts of interest in decision-making.
Other reportable offences include irregular procurement, questionable payments, unauthorised disposal of SACCO property and disclosure of confidential information belonging to members or the institution.
SASRA is also seeking information on deliberate destruction, removal or alteration of records to conceal wrongdoing, as well as attempts to cover up misconduct or failure to act on reported violations.
The authority said its Whistle Blower Policy allows individuals to submit information without revealing their identities.
“ You do not have to prove the allegation before reporting. Report what you reasonably believe to be true,” the regulator said.
It also pledged to handle disclosures confidentially and protect the identities of those who come forward.
However, SASRA cautioned that investigations or court proceedings could sometimes reveal the source of information or require a witness to provide a statement. Where a whistleblower is identifiable, the authority said it would discuss the implications and offer support through the process.
The regulator further assured people reporting in good faith that they would be protected even if their allegations were later found to be inaccurate or could not be substantiated.
It warned against intimidation or victimisation of whistleblowers, urging anyone subjected to retaliation because of a disclosure to report the matter.
SASRA said concerns can be submitted through telephone, WhatsApp, email, post or an arranged meeting with the authority.
To facilitate investigations, whistleblowers are encouraged to provide the name of the SACCO involved, individuals suspected of wrongdoing, details of what happened, the location and time of the incident, and any supporting documents or information available.
Those comfortable sharing their contact details may also provide them to allow investigators to seek clarification or additional information.
The authority has distinguished whistleblower reports involving suspected fraud and corruption from ordinary complaints about SACCO products, services or customer care.
Members with service-related grievances are expected to first use their SACCO's complaints management process, while allegations involving fraud, corruption or concealment of wrongdoing should be clearly identified when reporting to the regulator.
SASRA said individuals who feel their concerns have not been adequately addressed, or fear victimisation, may escalate the matter to the relevant government agency.
The campaign comes as the regulator seeks to strengthen oversight and protect savings held by millions of Kenyans through the SACCO movement.
“Your voice matters. Report early. Help secure SACCO funds,” SASRA said.
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