Pedro Nuno Santos Stands Firm on Parliamentary Inquiry Amidst Montenegro's Evasion of Answers

Parliamentary Inquiry on Montenegro's Business Deals Remains in Place

The leader of the Socialist Party (PS), Pedro Nuno Santos, is determined to pursue a parliamentary inquiry into Prime Minister Luís Montenegro's business dealings in the next legislative session. This decision comes as Montenegro continues to evade questions and clarifications regarding the Spinumviva case. During a press briefing, Santos reiterated that if Montenegro fails to provide further clarifications, the inquiry will proceed post-elections.

Santos stated, "If all clarifications were provided before the elections, it might not be necessary to conduct a parliamentary inquiry," but he expressed skepticism about this happening. He emphasized that many questions remain unanswered, asserting, "I see no willingness from the current Prime Minister to clarify these matters. Therefore, if nothing changes, the intention for the inquiry remains."

The PS has consistently maintained that not all issues related to Spinumviva and its occasional clients, as well as the restructuring plan for the gas station initiated by Montenegro, have been clarified. Unlike parties such as the Left Bloc and Chega, the PS has not posed direct questions to the Prime Minister, opting instead to push for a parliamentary inquiry that was previously announced and would proceed regardless of the government's stability.

In a recent conference, Santos expressed that he has gathered sufficient information to form a negative judgment on Montenegro's seriousness and hopes that a parliamentary inquiry won't be necessary. However, he insists that the inquiry's initiation is tied directly to Montenegro's lack of responses.

Business Leaders Demand Political Stability

In a meeting with the Confederation of Portuguese Industry (CIP), Santos highlighted the need for a stable political environment to foster economic transformation, reiterating that having a Prime Minister shrouded in suspicions does not help the situation. Business leaders have expressed concerns over the country's governance post-elections and have called for a convergence among major parties to ensure stability.

Santos acknowledged this demand but maintained that any potential agreements should focus on essential state matters, such as justice, foreign policy, and defense. He pointed to recent cooperation between the government and PS regarding defense expenditure as a positive example of collaboration.

While he affirms the need for governance, Santos also emphasized the importance of addressing the Spinumviva case and Montenegro's accountability. He remains committed to ensuring that the parliamentary inquiry proceeds if further clarifications are not provided by the Prime Minister by May 18.

In summary, the political landscape remains tense as the PS continues to push for accountability from Montenegro, while business leaders call for stability and collaboration among parties to ensure effective governance in the upcoming elections.