Diana Buzoianu is considering dismissing ANM chief Elena Mateescu following allegations of luxury purchases made with the institution’s funds

The scandal surrounding purchases made at the National Meteorological Administration is escalating. Environment Minister Diana Buzoianu announced that she will discuss with the ministry’s lawyers this afternoon to decide whether ANM director Elena Mateescu will be dismissed or suspended.

Buzoianu claims that the institution carried out direct purchases and contracts worth a cumulative total of millions of lei, exceeding the thresholds stipulated by law. Among the reported expenses are perfumes worth 120,000 lei and a 1,300-lei bra, purchased and reimbursed through the institution’s card. The minister described the situation as an unjustified use of public funds and stated that all those responsible must be held accountable.

Elena Mateescu rejects the accusations and says that she did not approve the purchases she considers illegal. The ANM director stated that she does not intend to resign.

The Environment Minister also accused the ANM Board of Directors of operational problems, claiming that it has consisted of only two members for several months. She said that proposals to complete the structure were returned by the competent authority for the correction of certain details in the files.