Saeima rejects no-confidence motion against Health Minister Abu Meri

The Saeima, Latvia's parliament, on Thursday rejected a motion demanding the resignation of Health Minister Hosam Abu Meri, drafted by lawmakers from the opposition party "Latvia First" (LPV). Twenty-four deputies voted to support the dismissal, while 67 voted against, allowing the minister to remain in office.

Opposition's complaints

LPV lawmakers put forward the no-confidence request after expressing dissatisfaction with the minister's responses to an earlier party inquiry concerning the availability of medical assistance and healthcare services. The opposition argued that Abu Meri has failed to improve the efficiency of governance within the health sector.

Minister's response

Speaking during the parliamentary session, Abu Meri pushed back against the assessment that everything in healthcare is failing. He pointed out that under the previous government, the health budget grew from 1.6 billion euros to two billion euros. The minister also noted that he himself works within the health system and, as a physician, observes firsthand how it functions. Abu Meri expressed confidence that numerous aspects of healthcare have improved recently.

The vote outcome shows that coalition deputies backed the minister, and the resignation initiative failed to secure majority support in parliament.