Health Ministry Whistleblower Alleges Corruption in EU-Funded Hospital Renovation Program

A former state secretary at Slovakia's health ministry has filed corruption allegations against Martin Smatana, claiming he operated in a conflict of interest during a 212-million-euro European Union-funded hospital renovation program. The whistleblower, identified as Dunajová Družkovská, served as a state secretary and reported the alleged irregularities through official channels. She is also providing testimony against the management of a hospital in Trenčín regarding a pipe replacement project that allegedly existed only on paper rather than being actually carried out. The case highlights concerns about the proper oversight of EU funds allocated for healthcare infrastructure improvements in Slovakia, where corruption in public procurement has been a persistent issue.