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[POLITICS] · Romania · 25 sources

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National Meteorological Administration leadership faces resignation calls over luxury spending

Romania’s Minister of Environment, Diana Buzoianu, has demanded the resignation of the leadership of the National Meteorological Administration (ANM) following an audit that uncovered extensive misuse of public funds. The investigation revealed that institutional bank cards were used to purchase luxury items, including designer clothing, perfumes, cosmetics, high-heeled shoes, and even luxury underwear.

In 2025, the audit identified expenditures such as 119,750 lei for perfumes and 85,290 lei for clothing and accessories. Similar irregularities were noted in 2026. Additionally, the Ministry’s control body flagged concerns regarding direct procurement processes for office supplies, furniture, and IT equipment, alleging that many contracts exceeded legal limits for direct attribution.

ANM Director General Elena Mateescu has denied personal involvement in the irregularities, stating that her institutional card was inactive from the time of issuance. She claimed to have notified the police about certain institutional activities as early as August 2026 and characterized the public accusations as a political campaign aimed at her removal. The Ministry of Environment intends to submit its findings to the Prosecutor General’s Office and the Court of Accounts.

Entities

Administrația Națională de Meteorologie · Diana Buzoianu · Elena Mateescu · Ministerul Mediului, Apelor și Pădurilor · Ministry of Environment · Ministry of Environment, Waters and Forests · National Meteorological Administration · Parchetul de pe lângă Înalta Curte de Casație și Justiție · Prosecutor General's Office · Prosecutor's Office

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