Political Turmoil in Portugal: IL Leader Accuses Pedro Nuno Santos of Irresponsibility Over Spinumviva Inquiry

Accusations of Irresponsibility

The leader of the IL (Liberal Initiative) party, Rui Rocha, has accused Pedro Nuno Santos, the Secretary-General of the PS (Socialist Party), of irresponsibility regarding the potential abandonment of a parliamentary inquiry into Spinumviva. Rocha expressed his surprise that such a decision could be made without new information about the case.

During the Fábrica 2030 conference in Lisbon, Santos remarked that he hopes a parliamentary inquiry into Spinumviva will not be necessary, indicating a desire for clarity before the end of the electoral campaign.

Two Possibilities for Santos' Stance

After a meeting with the CIP (Confederação Empresarial de Portugal), Rocha stated that there are only two possibilities for Santos' change of position: either he possesses information that the public does not have, which he should share, or he lacks any new information and is therefore acting irresponsibly.

Rocha emphasized that it is surprising for someone who previously sought to address a crisis to now abandon the inquiry that was central to his proposal for clarity.

IL's Position on the Inquiry

When asked if the IL still supports the inquiry into Spinumviva, Rocha clarified that the party has not taken a firm stance on matters concerning Luís Montenegro, the leader of the PSD (Social Democratic Party). He reiterated that the IL's focus is on promoting a country capable of achieving success, rather than engaging in personal disputes.

Evaluating the Need for Inquiry

Rocha previously believed that the inquiry was necessary to prevent the country from heading into elections. Now, he suggests that if Santos feels sufficiently informed, he must explain to the public how he contributed to the political crisis without any significant new facts.

Comments on National Mourning

In a separate query, Rocha was asked about the three days of national mourning declared due to the death of Pope Francis. He expressed that while the mourning days are appropriate, the commemoration of April 25th should proceed as planned, highlighting its significance to the country.