MP Blasts SIO for Year-Long Application Backlogs

The Social Insurance Organisation (SIO) is under increasing criticism for its slow handling of applications, with MP Jalila Alawi bringing attention to the grievances of many who have approached her, complaining about the excessive delays in the processing of their submissions by the SIO.

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Al-Sayed highlighted cases where delays have stretched from seven months to an entire year, causing substantial inconvenience. She urged the SIO to speed up the processing of applications, particularly those crucial to family and individual financial entitlements, as these delays are adversely affecting inheritance rights and retirement decisions. She called on the new Board of Directors at the SIO to fulfil their duties by improving the financial stability of the funds and enhancing service quality. Al-Sayed stressed that in this digital age, such delays by government agencies are beyond the pale. She pointed out that the Board must adhere to the Cabinet's directives aimed at improving service standards for citizens and increasing the efficiency of government bodies.

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Many visitors to the SIO building have expressed frustration and resorted to the Tawasul complaint system due to the lack of progress. However, this has proven ineffective, as they received standardised, unhelpful responses. Several individuals noted that replies to their complaints were often sent late on Friday nights, indicating the immense pressure on the Organisation and the necessity for employees to work even during weekends.