Moussa al-Megarief, Libya’s Education Minister, was sentenced to three and a half years in prison due to a textbook shortage scandal dating back to 2021. He also received a fine of 1,000 dinars and is deprived of civil rights for his sentence duration and an additional year. The court found him guilty of favoritism in contract management.
The Libyan Education Minister, Moussa al-Megarief, has received a sentence of three and a half years in prison due to a textbook shortage issue that originated in 2021. The announcement was made by the attorney-general’s office on Sunday. Additionally, he has been fined 1,000 dinars (approximately $200) and stripped of his civil rights for the duration of his incarceration, plus an extra year post-sentence.
The Tripoli court of appeal determined that Megarief, a member of the national unity government, had breached the principle of equality and engaged in contract favoritism regarding the printing of textbooks. His actions were scrutinized because, at the beginning of the 2021 school year, parents were compelled to spend extra money on photocopies of textbooks that were meant to be free in public schools.
An investigation into his management of contractual processes led to claims concerning the textbook shortage. Although initially taken into custody, Megarief was later released due to insufficient evidence and returned to his ministerial role. He attributed the textbook supply issue to efforts aimed at harmonizing the school curriculum across Libya’s three regions, which he stated delayed supplier payments.
In conclusion, Moussa al-Megarief’s conviction highlights significant issues in the management of educational resources in Libya, particularly regarding equitable access to textbooks. His appeal sentencing underlines the government’s efforts to address corruption and favoritism within public service, even as he states that administrative challenges contributed to the crisis.
Original Source: www.thenews.com.pk
