António José Seguro calls for rapid inquiry conclusions into Internal Administration Minister Luís Neves

Presidential call for constitutional responsibility

On Sunday, Portuguese President António José Seguro addressed reporters regarding the ongoing scrutinies surrounding the Minister of Internal Administration, Luís Neves. Speaking at the conclusion of his visit to an international art exhibition, Seguro emphasized the need for prompt resolution across all ongoing audits and investigations examining the minister's conduct. The head of state noted that he had already commented on the matter three separate times and reaffirmed his established position.

Seguro stated that he acts with close attention to established facts while consulting relevant authorities as required. He pointed to institutional boundaries, stressing that every branch of government must operate within its defined mandate.

Our Constitution is very clear about the powers and duties of each sovereign body. What I want is for everyone to assume their responsibility.

Inquiries into vehicles and transparency filings

The inquiries into Neves involve administrative compliance and the use of state-allocated vehicles. At the center of the controversy is Neves's omission of two motor vehicles owned by his wife from his asset declaration to the Transparency Entity (Entidade para a Transparência), contrary to statutory disclosure obligations for government officials. Additionally, scrutiny focuses on his continued possession and personal use of a vehicle assigned to him during his previous tenure as national director of the Judicial Police (Polícia Judiciária).

The car in question is a Volkswagen Golf GTD sports model that had been seized by the Judicial Police. Reports indicate that Neves retained this vehicle after transitioning from leading the police force into his ministerial position.

I want the inquiries, audits, and investigations being carried out to proceed as quickly as possible so that we know the conclusions.

Ministerial resources and official response

Media reports by Nascer do Sol and TVI/CNN detailed the state resources allocated to Neves within the Ministry of Internal Administration. According to these outlets, the minister has access to several high-end official vehicles, alongside dedicated personnel comprising four security officers and two drivers. Despite these resources, reporting stated that Neves routinely drove and parked the seized sports vehicle at his private home.

Neves addressed the allegations by clarifying the legal status of the vehicle. The minister explained that the car operates as an official service vehicle under a loan agreement (regime de comodato) and affirmed that its assignment complies fully with legal authorizations.

Cultural visit to the border region

Seguro made his statements while touring the 24th edition of the Bienal de Vila Nova de Cerveira in northern Portugal, which runs until 30 December under the theme "Territórios sem Fronteira". The visit was guided by the artistic director of the biennial, Mafalda Santos, and the mayor of Vila Nova de Cerveira, Rui Teixeira. The tour followed Seguro's attendance on Saturday at the traditional Festas de Nossa Senhora d'Agonia in nearby Viana do Castelo.

During the visit, Seguro discussed regional cultural access, recalling remarks from the previous week where he argued that Portugal contains no dispensable territories. He praised the municipality and local organizers for sustaining an event near the Spanish border, noting that artistic initiatives should not remain restricted to primary metropolitan centers.