The former German Health Minister and current leader of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) parliamentary group, Jens Spahn, has publicly defended himself against allegations related to the procurement of face masks during the COVID-19 pandemic. In an interview with “Bild am Sonntag” Spahn expressed a desire for the Sudhoff report, which has triggered the recent scrutiny, to have been released in its entirety from the outset.
Responding to accusations of consistent dishonesty levied by Green party representatives, Spahn counterattacked, accusing his critics of employing tactics reminiscent of the Alternative for Germany (AfD). He stated that while robust political debate is expected, the level of speculation and constructed accusations of deceit are concerning and align with methods previously utilized by the AfD.
Spahn emphatically asserted his innocence, stating, “I can only say: I’m telling the truth to the best of my knowledge and conscience”. He acknowledged difficulties and a lack of clarity surrounding mask procurement during the pandemic, explaining that the Health Ministry frequently encountered situations where promised deliveries failed to materialize.
Regarding the procurement of expensive masks from the Swiss company Emix, Spahn defended the decision, pointing out that other German states, including Bavaria and North Rhine-Westphalia, had also sourced masks from the same supplier. He conceded that, in retrospect, a different approach might have been preferable, but emphasized the context of the urgent need at the time and the assurance of reliable supply provided by the initial recommendation.
Spahn categorically ruled out resigning from his position as parliamentary group leader, emphasizing the importance of the work accomplished during the pandemic. He highlighted the continued belief among approximately two-thirds of the German population that the country navigated the crisis effectively.