US Congressman Scott Perry has alleged that the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has been involved in funding terrorist organisations, including ISIS, Al Qaeda, Boko Haram, and their affiliates. 

Perry made these claims during the inaugural hearing of the Subcommittee on Delivering on Government Efficiency on Thursday. The hearing, titled “The War on Waste: Stamping out the scourge of improper payments and fraud,” focused on financial mismanagement and fraud in government spending.

The allegations have added to growing scrutiny over USAID’s operations, with critics questioning its financial oversight. 

USAID, established in 1961, is a government agency responsible for providing economic, development, and humanitarian assistance worldwide. Its mission includes disaster relief, global health initiatives, and economic growth programs, often working in regions affected by poverty and conflict.

Perry’s accusations have sparked strong reactions, with some lawmakers calling for an investigation into the agency’s funding practices. The claims align with previous criticisms of USAID’s spending, particularly in conflict-prone regions where oversight can be challenging.

Adding to the controversy, President Donald Trump had previously placed nearly all of USAID’s 10,000 employees on leave and expressed intentions to shut down the agency, citing corruption concerns.

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