Nuno Rebelo de Sousa denies using father's influence in twins case

Nuno Rebelo de Sousa, son of former Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, denied using his family connection to influence the treatment of twins with spinal muscular atrophy, shifting responsibility to a former health official during his interrogations. Accused of misconduct, Rebelo de Sousa stated he acted only as president of the Portuguese Chamber of Commerce in Brazil, not as the president's son. He claimed he merely requested information and that former Secretary of State Lacerda Sales arranged the consultation, denying a private meeting Sales alleged occurred. Rebelo de Sousa said he never met the twins' parents and learned of the case through intermediaries. He admitted contacting the Presidency and Health Ministry for information but insisted he played no role in scheduling the hospital appointment.