Summary:
Castro Almeida sold his 25% stake in Quantum 98 amid land law controversies.
The sale was made on February 13, following Hernâni Dias' resignation.
Almeida aimed to prevent any association with the new Land Law.
He insists that the law applies to all, ensuring transparency in his business dealings.
Prime Minister Luís Montenegro is also under scrutiny for potential conflicts of interest.
Minister's Stake Sale
The Minister of Cohesion and Territorial Affairs, Castro Almeida, recently sold his 25% stake in the real estate company Quantum 98. This sale occurred on February 13, following the controversy that led to the resignation of Hernâni Dias from the government. Almeida stated he wanted to "cut the problem at its root" and prevent any association with the new Land Law.
Almeida, who has been involved in the real estate sector for over 25 years, emphasized that the decision to sell was made in late January to avoid public misconceptions about the benefits of owning a real estate company in light of the new legislation. He asserted that the law applies equally to real estate companies and to any citizen.
Legal Transparency
The minister reassured that he has always declared his business interests to the Constitutional Court and has now disclosed his company to the Transparency Entity. He described the situation as “clear, nothing hidden, everything legal.”
However, documents revealed by RTP indicate that the sale was finalized 15 days after Dias's resignation, raising questions about the timing. Almeida defended himself, stating that Dias's case was different as he had created two companies while in office, which could benefit from the new law.
Ongoing Controversy
The Prime Minister, Luís Montenegro, is also facing scrutiny regarding potential conflicts of interest related to his family's company, Spinumviva, which may benefit from the land law changes. Montenegro denied any conflict, claiming he has not been a partner in the firm since June 30, 2022.
Amidst these developments, André Ventura, the leader of the Chega party, threatened to introduce a motion of censure against the government unless Montenegro provides clear explanations. This motion is set to be debated and voted on this Friday.
As the situation unfolds, Pedro Nuno Santos, secretary-general of the PS, echoed calls for Montenegro to clarify his position, likening it to the circumstances that led to Dias's resignation.
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