The director of the National Public Health Agency Nicolae Furtună tendered his resignation. The vacated post will be held on an interim basis by the Agency’s vice director Vasile Guștiuc. The decision was taken in a meeting called by Prime Minister Ion Chicu. This involved Nicolae Furtună, IPN reports.

According to the Government’s press service, Premier Chicu said he appreciates Nicolae Furtună’s professionalism and thanked him for his work and efforts made as the manager of the NPHA in an extremely difficult period at the national and global levels. Ion Chicu expressed his profound regret at the statements made recently by Nicolae Furtună.

Two hours earlier, Nicolae Furtună presented public apologies after stating in a TV program that COVID-19 all over the world claimed the lives of those who were a burden for them and for those around. According to the director, from medical viewpoint, the phrase “burden of COVID-19” is correct, not yet from social viewpoint and as regards the sufferings. Shortly afterward, President Igor Dodon reacted, saying Nicolae Furtună no longer has the moral right to hold this post and should resign. He noted he informed the Government about his position and is waiting for a decision that would meet the expectations of the people.