In Latvia, opposition MPs from the "United List" have submitted a request to Education and Science Minister Dace Melbārde, seeking clarification on alleged irregularities and disproportionate costs associated with IT procurements by the Ministry of Education and Science (IZM) and its subordinate institutions. The request follows reports in February regarding the purchase of IT equipment at what appears to be unreasonably high prices, raising concerns about the management of public funds.

One specific example highlighted by the MPs involves individual components of computer sets, such as a computer mouse cable, allegedly purchased for around 84 euros. According to the lawmakers, these exaggerated prices could lead to overall costs amounting to several hundred thousand euros. They assert that such instances suggest a possible disparity in procurement processes and an ineffective use of public resources, emphasizing the need for scrutiny in government spending.

The MPs recalled that at the end of February, the minister announced on social media the initiation of service audits in the area of IT procurement. However, they noted that the Saeima has not received complete information regarding the status and conclusions of these audits. This highlights ongoing concerns within the educational sector regarding transparency and accountability in government-administered spending, especially in the wake of rising costs in the procurement of essential technology for educational purposes.