Luís Montenegro addressed journalists during the PSD National Council, where he received the announcement.
The former Prime Minister Francisco Pinto Balsemão, founder and first member of the PSD, passed away today at the age of 88.
“Tomorrow, we have a Council of Ministers meeting, and our disposition, already discussed with some government members, is to declare a national mourning on the day of Dr. Francisco Pinto Balsemão’s funeral ceremonies,” he stated, adding that the exact date is yet to be confirmed.
When asked if this news would lead to changes in his schedule as Prime Minister, Montenegro admitted that he had not yet had the time to reorganize.
“Frankly, I have not had any time to reorganize my schedule due to this event, which was outside our forecasts and my expectations, despite being aware of Dr. Francisco Pinto Balsemão’s health condition,” he remarked.
Luís Montenegro confirmed receiving the news during the PSD National Council meeting, sharing it with the participants, who applauded the founder and former social-democrat Prime Minister.
The proceedings of the party’s highest body between Congress sessions are still ongoing.
[News updated at 23:10]
