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Verdict 👨‍⚖️

PM rejects austerity after case dropped, amid crises.

A significant development in a high-profile corruption case has emerged as the Public Ministry announced it has dropped its investigation into former Minister of Economy and Innovation Manuel Pinho and former Roland Berger leader António Bernardo, concerning consulting contracts awarded by Turismo de Portugal. This resolution follows a period of intense scrutiny over financial transparency.

In political and economic news, Prime Minister Luís Montenegro has publicly committed to not being the 'father of austerity,' ruling out measures that would increase the cost of money, a stance that comes amidst ongoing economic discussions. Separately, Mário Centeno, the Governor of Banco de Portugal, has criticized former President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa regarding the swearing-in of the current government, adding to the political discourse.

The nation is also contending with pressing domestic issues, including 'very violent' wildfires in the Arganil region that are endangering several villages, requiring the deployment of over 800 firefighters. Concurrently, the housing market is seeing a notable surge, with a 34% increase in the supply of homes with maximum rents between €2000 and €2300, while new housing programs are being introduced without proper regulatory frameworks.

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Corruption Case Against Pinho and Bernardo Dropped

The Public Ministry has closed its corruption investigation involving former Minister of Economy and Innovation Manuel Pinho and former Roland Berger leader António Bernardo, which centered on consulting contracts granted by Turismo de Portugal. Manuel Pinho remains under house arrest following previous convictions for corruption, tax fraud, and money laundering.

Prime Minister Rejects Austerity, Faces Political Criticism

Prime Minister Luís Montenegro has declared his intention to avoid austerity measures, stating he will not be the 'father of austerity' and will not implement policies that increase the cost of money. This comes as Mário Centeno, Governor of Banco de Portugal, has openly criticized former President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa for swearing in the current government.

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