Central European Midday Report: "Government Investigates Controversial Hospital Construction, Highlights Importance of Free Press"

Acting Prime Minister Orders Investigation into Controversial Private Hospital Construction:

Acting Prime Minister Dimitar Glavchev has announced plans to file a report with the State Agency for National Security (SANS) and the Prosecutor's Office regarding the "Mama and I" Multi-Profile Hospital for Active Treatment. This action follows a public outcry over the decision to permit the construction of the private children's hospital. According to the government's press service, Glavchev's decision to seek a full investigation aims to clarify the facts and circumstances surrounding the project's approval.

The decision to allow the hospital's construction was made during a Cabinet meeting on April 30 but was quickly canceled after institutions, political parties, and non-governmental organizations expressed their concerns. Glavchev emphasized the need for accountability from those who presented the decision to the Council of Ministers and cited the public tension as the reason for halting the project.

President Maia Sandu Highlights Importance of Free Press on World Press Freedom Day:

President Maia Sandu has reaffirmed the significance of a free press in upholding democratic values as the world celebrates World Press Freedom Day on May 3. Sandu praised journalists who work diligently to serve the public interest and emphasized the necessity of well-trained, courageous reporters who are free to expose corruption.

In a statement, Sandu expressed her gratitude to journalists for their honesty and dedication. "To be an honest journalist is to be a free journalist," she said, adding that a free press is a cornerstone of a democratic society. The annual event honors journalists worldwide and commemorates those who have lost their lives in the line of duty. World Press Freedom Day was established by the UN General Assembly in 1993, following a UNESCO recommendation.