Remisova Slams Purchase of Limousines by Interior Ministry; It Rejects Criticism

Bratislava, 17 March (TASR) - Opposition lawmaker Veronika Remisova ('Slovakia'-'For the People' caucus) has criticised the Interior Ministry's purchase of luxury limousines for nearly €1.5 million. The MP has announced that she'll contact the Supreme Audit Office (NKU) as in a time of austerity, she considers this to be an affront to the people. "In just the last month, Minister Matus Sutaj Estok (Voice-SD) and his Interior Ministry ... spent nearly €1.5 million on luxury vehicles. Most of these vehicles are in the highest and most luxurious category," stated Remisova, noting that "ordinary people" are dealing with the consequences of austerity measures and can't afford to fill up the tank with petrol or diesel. The MP points out that many European countries are striving to streamline the procurement of government vehicles. For example, in Finland or Denmark, the government often uses standard mid-range fleet vehicles. The Interior Ministry rejects the criticism, claiming that she distorts the facts and fails to take into account the actual condition of the vehicle fleet of the ministry's Office for the Protection of Constitutional Officials and Diplomatic Missions. It also notes that it provided advance notice of the purchase of 30 new vehicles, concluded two framework agreements with the winning bidder following a public procurement process, and subsequently proceeded to sign the first purchase agreement. It further argues that purchasing vehicles in larger quantities yields significant savings. The ministry also justifies the purchase by citing the condition of the vehicle fleet, which provides transportation security for members of the government, constitutional officials, judges, and foreign delegations. According to the ministry, the fleet is in critical condition, with many vehicles past their prime, incurring high operating costs, and their technical reliability nearing the end of their service life. According to the ministry, the last major fleet renewal took place in 2024. am