The handling of protective mask procurement during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic continues to be a point of contention for former Health Minister Jens Spahn (CDU). A recently released special report, known as the sudhof report, alleges that the ministry, under SPAHN’s leadership, engaged in overpriced purchases, employed unsuitable procedures, and entered into questionable contracts.

Despite the report being available to the Ministry of Health since January, its publication was initially withheld. Now,pressure mounts on the current Minister of Health,Nina Warken (CDU),and JENS SPAHN,the current chairman of the CDU/CSU parliamentary group,to release the findings to the public.

“I don’t know this report. I have never been asked about that either.”

Spahn Claims Lack of Knowledge

During a recent appearance on “Markus Lanz,” JENS SPAHN maintained that he was unaware of the report’s contents. Even when confronted with incredulous questioning from MARKUS LANZ, who highlighted SPAHN’s prominent position within the CDU, SPAHN stood by his statement.

Spahn Defends Actions, Cites “Wild-West Market”

In March 2020, SPAHN initiated an “open house” process, guaranteeing acceptance of FFP2 masks from any provider at 4.50 euros per unit. This led to offers from various individuals and companies, some with limited or no experience in supplying protective masks.

MARKUS LANZ referenced the FAZ, which had previously published excerpts from the Sudhof report, questioning why the “open house” process proceeded despite knowledge that the average price for masks was 2.83 euros at the time.

Comparing the 2.83 euro average price to the 4.50 euros paid, JENS SPAHN likened the situation to a “health warfall.”