Opposition Calls for Investigation Following Sudhof's Testimony on Pandemic Mask Purchases
The ongoing controversy surrounding mask acquisitions during the COVID-19 pandemic continues to unfold, with opposition parties expressing an increased need for clarity following the recent testimony of special investigator Margaretha Sudhof. During a session of the Bundestag's budget committee, Sudhof's insights have left lawmakers with more questions than answers regarding the handling of mask purchases by the government.
Green Party representative Paula Piechotta noted that the recent discussions revealed numerous unresolved issues, particularly regarding the actions of former Health Minister Jens Spahn. Piechotta indicated that the allegations against Spahn appeared to have gained further substantiation. The committee plans to reconvene at the end of July to delve deeper into these matters.
According to Sudhof's report, Spahn had initiated mass procurement of protective masks in early 2020, despite warnings from his department's experts. The ministry engaged in a purchasing strategy that involved fixed high prices without negotiation, resulting in disputes with suppliers over unsold masks. This mismanagement could expose the federal government to significant financial liabilities, potentially amounting to billions.
As Sudhof arrived at the Bundestag, transparency concerns were raised. While she was willing to answer questions from lawmakers, Sudhof clarified that she did not possess unlimited authorization to disclose information, which limited her ability to comment publicly. The committee session was classified as confidential, but the ministry later confirmed that Sudhof had permission to present her findings in full.
In light of her testimony, Piechotta emphasized the importance of reconciling Spahn's statements with Sudhof's findings, suggesting that a thorough investigation might be necessary to ascertain the truth. Piechotta expressed skepticism about the credibility of the claims made by both Spahn and current Health Minister Nina Warken.
Ines Schwerdtner, leader of the Left Party, echoed calls for a formal investigation, urging coalition parties to support the establishment of a parliamentary inquiry. She argued that the government should have a vested interest in uncovering the truth to prevent similar scandals in the future. Schwerdtner contended that the allegations against Spahn had only gained more credibility rather than being dismissed.
Conversely, Christian Haase, a budget policy spokesperson for the Union, dismissed claims made by the Left and Green parties as unfounded conspiracy theories, asserting that Sudhof's role was limited to improving the ministry's legal strategies regarding mask procurement. He denied any evidence supporting allegations of political bias in Sudhof's findings.
Looking ahead, the investigation will continue in the Health Committee, and the budget committee is expected to reconvene during the parliamentary summer recess to revisit the mask procurement issue. The agenda will also address funding allocations to the now-insolvent battery manufacturer Northvolt, a matter that the Union intends to connect with the mask purchasing debate.
Spahn reiterated that he had not received any financial benefits from mask deals, categorically rejecting accusations made by some Green Party members as defamatory. He has previously defended his actions during the crisis, stating that they were necessary.