North Macedonia’s Health Minister Venko Filipče resigned following a devastating fire at a COVID-19 field hospital in the western town of Tetovo, which resulted in the deaths of 14 individuals. The tragic incident occurred on the night of September 8, 2021, when a blaze broke out at the temporary hospital, rapidly engulfing the facility. The victims included 12 patients and two visiting relatives. The fire is believed to have started accidentally, possibly preceded by an explosion, though investigations are ongoing .
In a press conference held in the capital, Skopje, Minister Filipče expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy and announced his resignation for “moral reasons.” He emphasized that, as both a physician and a public official, he felt a profound sense of responsibility and honor, leading him to submit his written resignation to Prime Minister Zoran Zaev. Filipče stated, “I have never shied away from criticism, and I have always acted transparently in the fight against the pandemic. All decisions were made to protect public health.” He further conveyed his condolences to the families of the victims and acknowledged the emotional impact of the incident on him personally.
Following the resignation of Minister Filipče, Deputy Health Minister Ilir Hasani and the director of the Tetovo State Hospital also stepped down. The fire’s rapid spread and the subsequent loss of life have prompted widespread public outcry and raised questions about the safety standards of temporary medical facilities established during the pandemic. An investigation is underway, with authorities collecting video evidence and consulting experts to determine the cause of the fire and assess the adequacy of safety measures in place.
The incident has cast a spotlight on the challenges faced by healthcare systems in managing emergency situations and the importance of stringent safety protocols in temporary medical establishments. As the investigation progresses, the people of North Macedonia await answers and accountability for the tragic loss of life.
