The plenary session has approved a motion of condolence for the late António José Bastos Leitão, a former socialist mayor who passed away at the age of 79 on July 9th. He is remembered for his “determined efforts to improve living conditions for the population, particularly in expanding essential services like piped water and basic sanitation.”
António José Bastos Leitão served as the first president of the Municipal Assembly of Crato following the Carnation Revolution, holding the position from 1976 to 1979. He later became the mayor of Crato, highlighting his “key role in promoting local democratic assertion after April 25th.”
The mayor is described as a “prominent figure in the civic and local government life of Crato,” known for laying the “foundations for public facilities” and driving “local development through cultural and tourism promotion,” notably through the creation of the Crato Festival.
The socialist also served as an aide to the Civil Governor of Portalegre for a decade. The PS notes his political and civic involvement was “characterized by deep respect for democracy, a commitment to dialogue, and a strong sense of social justice,” earning him “widespread appreciation from the public and his peers.”
“Thus, the Assembly of the Republic, gathered in plenary session, expresses its condolences for the passing of António José Leitão, honoring his life dedicated to public service and commitment to the development of Crato and the region. It extends heartfelt sympathies to his grieving family, friends, and all the people of Crato,” the motion reads.
