Surprising Shift: Pedro Nuno Santos Questions Need for Spinumviva Inquiry

Pedro Nuno Santos Suggests Inquiry May Not Be Necessary

On Tuesday, Pedro Nuno Santos, the leader of the Socialist Party (PS), expressed his hope that a parliamentary inquiry into the Spinumviva case may not be necessary. He stated, "I expect that, by the end of the electoral campaign, we will be able to clarify what still needs clarification," during a conference organized by Eco newspaper.

In his view, Santos believes he already has enough information to draw conclusions about the case involving Prime Minister Luís Montenegro. He remarked, "The Spinumviva case is not the only one; I am thinking of other reported cases, some more serious. I already know enough to draw my conclusions."

This statement drew criticism from Rui Rocha, the leader of the Liberal Initiative, who questioned Santos's change of stance: "The CPI, which was 'the alpha and omega' of uncovering the whole truth, is no longer necessary? What is this government doing to the country?" Rocha expressed his discontent during the same conference.

Santos Calls for Investigation Closure Before Elections

Santos also indicated that he hopes the preventive investigation involving him will be clarified before the upcoming elections, scheduled for May 18. He plans to submit a request to the Public Ministry to be heard regarding the investigation, which was prompted by an anonymous complaint.

When asked about the recent investigation opened against him, Santos stated he would likely send the formal request to the Public Ministry on Tuesday.

Critique of Economic Predictions

During the conference, Santos criticized the Social Democratic Party (AD) for what he described as a "trick" in their economic forecasts, suggesting they are overly optimistic. He warned business leaders, saying, "If you want to be fooled a second time, you can be fooled."

He emphasized that the PS has a more realistic economic program, predicting a 2% GDP growth, which allows for only €1.75 billion in measures. Santos pointed out that the AD's inflated predictions are misleading, stating, "A growth rate of 3% is nothing extraordinary."

He refrained from criticizing the Public Ministry, which he respects, while insisting that the anonymous complaints raised during the electoral campaign have political motivations. Santos stressed the importance of clarifying the issues surrounding the purchase of his two homes before the elections on May 18.