A Brazilian politician made headlines after a video surfaced of him slapping a computer screen during an argument with hospital staff over the alleged denial of care for his friend. Former congressman Raad Massouh was caught on camera confronting workers at Santa Helena Hospital in Asa Norte, demanding answers after they reportedly asked his friend, Antônio Melo, to make a hefty deposit for emergency treatment.
In the video, Massouh can be seen expressing frustration over the situation, questioning the staff about payment methods and eventually knocking the screen off the counter in anger. Despite the heated exchange, he later checked on Melo, who was resting in a hospital bed.
According to reports, Melo’s family contacted Massouh for help when they were told about the deposit requirement. After the incident, Melo was eventually placed in the ICU and later transferred to a private hospital for further treatment.
Santa Helena Hospital released a statement clarifying that they never denied care to Melo and that he was promptly attended to upon arrival. The hospital explained that after receiving necessary treatment, the family was presented with an estimated bill for continued hospital care.
Massouh, a dual Syria-Brazil citizen, previously served in the Federal District legislative assembly from 2010 to 2013 before being removed from office due to allegations of embezzlement.