Luís Montenegro reaffirms confidence in Minister Luís Neves

Portuguese Prime Minister Luís Montenegro has reaffirmed his full confidence in Minister of Internal Administration Luís Neves, describing his work as being of “extremely high quality and competence.” During a visit to Lisbon Airport, Montenegro emphasized that all government members remain in their positions because he chose them and trusts them.

This show of support comes amid political tension regarding a potential parliamentary inquiry led by the Chega party. The inquiry aims to investigate Neves’s tenure as head of the Judiciary Police (PJ), specifically concerning his involvement in previous investigations. While the PSD expresses concern over the potential political damage to the minister, the inquiry is expected to gain momentum in September.

Separately, Montenegro addressed the opposition during a PSD Summer University event, stating that the government remains “very patient” with critics whom he accused of making “many nonsense and absurdities.” He called for democratic tolerance and urged opposition parties, specifically the PS and Chega, to present alternatives without infringing upon the executive's sphere of action. He also clarified that there are no plans to alter Social Security during the current legislature.