Former Minister of Education Antonio Couto dos Santos
Although the cause of death remains undiscovered, the autopsy found no signs of drowning, requiring additional tests. The Public Prosecutor’s Office opened an investigation into the case.
Former Minister of Education António Couto dos Santos, who was part of the Cavaco Silva Government between 1992 and 1993, turned 75 this Monday.
Although the autopsy has already been carried out, the preliminary results do not allow us to clearly determine the cause of death, which led to the request for additional examssuch as toxicology and analyzes of other substances. These procedures can take months to complete.
Couto dos Santos’ body was found in a lake on the Senhora da Hora golf course, in Matosinhos. Witnesses claim to have seen him playing golf alone before he was found floating.
Despite some initial speculation about drowningthe autopsy rules out this hypothesis, leaning towards a possible natural death, but without definitive conclusions. The Porto Judiciary Police were not at the scene, as the PSP considered the death to be natural.
However, the PJ followed the autopsy and the results were sent to the Public Ministrywhich must keep the investigation open until the causes are clarified, says .
Couto dos Santos was a prominent figure in Portuguese politics. Born in Esposende, held several government positionsincluding Minister of Education and Minister of Parliamentary Affairs.
He became especially known for episodes such as the confrontation with the “rasca generation” during student protests against the increase in tuition fees, a notable episode of his mandate.
In addition to politics, Couto dos Santos played a role as consul of Russia and intermediary in business with China, demonstrating a vast network of international contacts.
The funeral ceremonies began this Wednesday, with the wake at Igreja do Foco, in Porto, at 10:30 am. On Thursday, the funeral mass will take place, followed by a funeral at 4pm at the Forjães cemetery, in Esposende, his birthplace.
