A resurfaced image is reigniting scrutiny of Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz and his administration’s handling of refugee programs and fraud oversight.

The photo shows Walz presenting African migrant Ayan Abukar with an “Outstanding Refugee Award,” an honor issued through Minnesota’s Department of Human Services for her supposed “contributions” to the state.

At the time, the award was promoted as a feel good example of successful refugee resettlement. What officials did not mention is that Abukar would later be convicted of massive fraud tied to Minnesota’s sprawling and deeply troubled social services system.

The revelation lands amid growing outrage over repeated fraud scandals that have plagued DHS under Walz’s watch. Billions in taxpayer dollars have flowed through programs that critics say were loosely monitored, poorly audited, and politically protected until prosecutors stepped in.

Supporters of the governor argue the award predates Abukar’s conviction. Critics counter that is exactly the problem. The state was handing out accolades while failing to conduct meaningful oversight, even as warning signs mounted.

Walz has built much of his national reputation on compassionate governance and expansive social programs. But cases like this expose the other side of that approach, where good intentions meet weak accountability and taxpayers are left holding the bag.

The photo may be old, but the questions it raises are very current. Who was vetting these programs. Who was watching the money. And how many more awards were handed out before the fraud was finally uncovered.