Carlos César, who took over as the interim leader of the Socialist Party (PS) following Pedro Nuno Santos’ resignation from the position of Secretary-General, addressed journalists about the “overwhelming majority” backing for his proposed electoral calendar, which schedules direct elections for June 27 and 28.
“This signifies that the Socialist Party has a keen understanding of the need to reactivate its leadership at this stage, making it legitimate and effective, enabling the party to successfully engage in the upcoming electoral battles concerning local municipalities,” he emphasized.
Carlos César indicated that “all signs point to José Luís Carneiro as the next Secretary-General, or at least he is the strongest, most consolidated, and best-known candidate, likely to assume the role.”
“He is a proven individual, well-known for his deep understanding of the party, Portuguese society, and various sectors of power. If elected, he will undoubtedly represent the Socialist Party with great dignity and efficiency,” César praised.
Highlighting Carneiro’s established track record as having the “necessary and appropriate profile,” the PS President noted that Carneiro now faces the “significant challenge of renewing his positive demonstrations in leading the PS.”
“He is an effective leader with a mandate to fulfill. Naturally, this mandate will later be complemented by the Congress and delegate elections, which will likely take place in the last quarter of the year or the first quarter of the next,” he stated.
According to Carlos César, “it is natural that if José Luís Carneiro wins, there might be some adjustments in certain national bodies to ensure greater intimacy and synergy with the executive team that will be working with him.”
The interim leader of PS does not view the Congress as “urgent,” arguing that it should be coupled with a more prolonged, continuous, and considered reflection that the Socialist Party needs to undertake regarding its future.
