The leader of the Socialist Party (PS) Pedro Nuno Santos has rejected the idea of a parliamentary commission of inquiry. He does not believe it is the right way for Prime Minister Luís Montenegro to clarify his role in a family real estate company.
Pedro Nuno Santos was speaking in Valença Viana do Castelo district. He said that the Prime Minister must answer all questions. He should explain who the clients were, what services were provided and how much they were charged. This would remove any doubts about the company’s activities. He said that a commission of inquiry is unnecessary as proposed by Chega.
The PS leader said the controversy about Montenegro’s company will only end when the Prime Minister provides full transparency. He should do so just as he did when discussing his tax debts.
He said:
It was said about the previous government [PS] that it was a government of affairs. This is a government of houses and little houses
Pedro Nuno Santos believes it is very important for Montenegro to give full details about the company. Montenegro was a partner in the business until June 2022. Now, it is owned by his wife and children. However, Pedro Nuno Santos said this issue has nothing to do with land laws.
He also questioned why so many government officials have business ties. He said:
I am always very curious to understand what these companies do and why they exist.
Pedro Nuno Santos noted that five members of the government have family real estate businesses. He said Portugal has a housing crisis. In this situation, it is strange that so many politicians are involved in real estate. It gives people the impression that this is a common practice in government.
When asked about Minister of Justice Rita Alarcão Júnior, he was critical. She owns shares in four real estate companies but has chosen to keep them. Pedro Nuno Santos pointed out inconsistencies in government actions. He said one Secretary of State created companies after joining and leaving the government. Another minister sold his company. Yet, the Minister of Justice has done nothing.
On Sunday, Chega released a statement about the issue. The party demanded written answers from Prime Minister Montenegro about his company Spinumviva. If he does not respond then they will request a parliamentary commission of inquiry.
The Political Context
Pedro Nuno Santos’s comments come at a difficult time in Portuguese politics. The new government faces criticism over the personal finances of its members. The Socialist Party has called for more transparency. They believe politicians should not own businesses that could create conflicts of interest.
Housing is a major problem in Portugal. Prices are rising, making it hard for people to afford homes. The government has promised solutions. However, many ministers have real estate businesses. Critics see this as a contradiction.
The Prime Minister’s Response
So far, Luís Montenegro has not responded to Pedro Nuno Santos. However, sources say he believes he has been honest. He insists his family’s real estate company follows the law and ethical standards.
Despite this, opposition parties continue to ask for more details. Chega leader André Ventura is leading the charge. He says that if Montenegro has nothing to hide, he should answer all questions.
Public Reaction
People have mixed opinions on this issue. Some think it is being exaggerated for political reasons. They say politicians, like other citizens, have a right to invest in businesses. Others believe government officials should be held to a higher standard. They should not own businesses that could lead to conflicts of interest.
Social media is full of debates. Some support Pedro Nuno Santos for demanding transparency. Others say Montenegro is being unfairly targeted. This has further divided public opinion.
What Happens Next?
The next few weeks will be important. If Montenegro provides clear answers, the controversy may end. If he does not, opposition parties will keep pressuring him. This could lead to more political problems.
For now, Pedro Nuno Santos stands by his opinion. He wants the issue addressed openly but does not support a commission of inquiry. His position may change depending on how the government responds.
Portugal faces a serious housing crisis. Citizens want solutions that make housing more affordable. The big question is: will this controversy lead to real change, or will it be just another political debate?
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