The Charity Commission has appointed an interim manager to Muslim Aid, after determining the charity could not resolve a number of finance and governance issues on its own.

The regulator opened a statutory inquiry into Muslim Aid in 2013 to examine financial irregularities relating to areas of the charity’s overseas activities. The charity was in early 2015 ordered to improve governance and financial management within 12 months.

However, in a statement released today the commission said it has become clear the charity is unable to resolve the matters. The regulator has therefore appointed Michael King of Stone King as interim manager.

The commission has been in discussion with the charity about the appointment for some time, the regulator said, and Muslim Aid has cooperated with the commission throughout the process.

Charity Commission director of investigations monitoring and enforcement Michelle Russell said the appointment of the interim manager is a necessary but positive step.

“The end goal for all concerned, including the trustees, is to ensure the charity moves forward in a compliant manner and on a positive footing to continue the valuable charitable work it does,” Russell said. “In addition, we welcome the charity’s recent appointment of Jehangir Malik as chief executive and his commitment to resolving these matters as a priority.”

Malik said Muslim Aid has been fully cooperating with the Charity Commission throughout its inquiry, and will continue to work with the regulator and the interim manager to strengthen the organisation.

“The charity has a proud history of delivering life-saving and life-changing work in complex and challenging contexts. Since joining the organisation, I have been impressed by its programmes and its people, that it is my privilege to lead. I look forward to working with all concerned to help strengthen the organisation, and in turn increase our impact on poverty to improve and save lives around the world.”

King said he hopes his role lasts no more than a few months.

“This is an important international NGO, rooted in the faith of the Muslim community and carrying out work in over 70 countries across the world. My principal task is to ensure that it will be a beacon of good governance in line with good practice, so enabling it to expand its vital relief work throughout the world.”

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