Fact Check: Is it true that Luis Montenegro, PM of Portugal, created companies after becoming PM?

Fact Check: "Is it true that Luis Montenegro, PM of Portugal, created companies after becoming PM?"

What We Know

Luís Montenegro, the Prime Minister of Portugal since April 2024, has been under scrutiny for his business dealings, particularly concerning a company he co-founded named Spinumviva. This company, which specializes in consultancy services related to data privacy laws, was established in 2021, prior to his election as Prime Minister. However, it continued to operate and receive payments from clients even after he took on his political role. Notably, he transferred ownership of Spinumviva to his wife and two sons, which has raised questions about the legality and ethics of this transfer, especially since the couple's assets are jointly held (BBC, Politico).

Montenegro has stated that Spinumviva provides legitimate consultancy services, yet the firm has been criticized for its ongoing financial ties to clients he secured before entering politics, including a casino group that pays €4,500 monthly for compliance services (Econews, BBC). The Bar Association is currently investigating whether the company is offering services that only licensed lawyers can provide (BBC).

Analysis

The claim that Luís Montenegro created companies after becoming Prime Minister is partially misleading. While he did not create Spinumviva after assuming office, he did establish it prior to his political ascent and continued to benefit from it while serving as Prime Minister. The transfer of ownership to his family members raises ethical concerns and has prompted a parliamentary inquiry into his business dealings (BBC, Politico).

The sources cited provide a mix of factual reporting and critical analysis. The BBC article is particularly reliable, as it outlines the timeline of events and the implications of Montenegro's actions, while also noting the ongoing scrutiny he faces from opposition parties. However, it is essential to consider potential bias; the inquiry into his business dealings may be politically motivated, given the contentious nature of Portuguese politics (BBC, Politico).

In contrast, the information from the Wikipedia page offers a more neutral overview of Montenegro's political career but lacks specific details about the controversies surrounding his business activities (Wikipedia).

Conclusion

The verdict is True that Luís Montenegro created a company (Spinuviva) prior to becoming Prime Minister and continued to benefit from it while in office. However, it is crucial to clarify that the company was established before his tenure as Prime Minister, and the ongoing scrutiny relates to the implications of his business dealings in light of his political role.

Sources

1. Luís Montenegro: "Portugal has had one of the most remarkable ..."
2. Portugal facing fresh elections after PM loses confidence vote - BBC
3. Luís Montenegro - Wikipedia
4. Portugal's PM Montenegro to keep most key ministers in ...
5. The gambling empire that pays 4,500 euros to the family business of the ...
6. The new Portuguese government - The Portugal News
7. PM's family business on casino group's payroll
8. 3 elections in 3 years: Portugal's political crisis explained