Plenković Rejects Calls for Health Minister Resignation Following Zagreb Clinic Death

Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenković rejected calls for Health Minister Irena Hrstić to resign on November 14, 2026, following the death of a patient at the Sveti Ivan Psychiatric Clinic in Zagreb. The Prime Minister argued that the responsibility for the facility lies with the city rather than the state. This decision comes amid significant public outcry regarding the circumstances surrounding the death of the patient.

Clinic leadership and staff arrests

The incident involved the death of 32-year-old Kristian Josip Periš, a former athlete and kinesiologist, who died at the clinic on October 21, 2026. Following the death, four medical technicians were arrested in early November 2026 on suspicion of aggravated murder. These individuals have been placed in investigative detention as part of the ongoing legal proceedings.

The leadership at the Sveti Ivan Psychiatric Clinic has already undergone significant changes. The director of the clinic, Majda Grah, and her deputy for nursing resigned the week prior to November 15, 2026. Additionally, the President and members of the Management Board appointed by the City of Zagreb resigned following the incident. These departures follow investigations into the conduct of staff at the facility.

Ministry of Health investigation findings

A health inspection conducted by the Ministry of Health identified irregularities regarding the documentation of physical restraint used on the patient. On November 4, 2026, the inspection reviewed video surveillance footage from the clinic. This footage revealed inappropriate conduct by certain members of the medical staff. Prime Minister Andrej Plenković stated that it is not normal that the Ministry of Health was only notified of the death two weeks after the event occurred.

The Prime Minister defended Health Minister Irena Hrstić by noting that the Sveti Ivan Psychiatric Clinic is a city-run hospital rather than a state-run hospital. Because of this administrative structure, the Prime Minister argued that the minister does not need to resign from her position.

Public outcry and legal context

The death of Kristian Josip Periš has triggered widespread public outcry across the country. The incident has led to specific demands for legal changes aimed at improving the protection of persons with mental disabilities. Advocates are calling for new regulations that would prohibit the use of face coverings and any procedures that impede the breathing of patients in psychiatric facilities.

The investigation into the circumstances of the death remains a central focus for both the Ministry of Health and law enforcement officials. While the Prime Minister has maintained his support for the Health Minister, the legal consequences for the medical technicians involved in the aggravated murder investigation continue to develop.

Glossary

• aggravated murder — An offense involving an attempt on a life. It is one of the charges mentioned in a legal context regarding a person sentenced by EULEX judges.
• investigative detention — A legal measure in criminal cases that can be granted for up to 48 hours or extended by an investigative judge for up to two years. It is used pending the completion of an investigation.
• Management Board — A body that sets the budget and approves work programmes. It is responsible for ensuring successful cooperation with partner organisations.