“We need to find solutions with the operators to ensure justice is served in a timely manner, as slow justice often does not serve justice,” stated António José Seguro in Montijo, when questioned about the investigations conducted at TAP. These inquiries, which also involve the Barraqueiro Group and Parpública, are part of a probe into alleged crimes during the 2015 privatization of the airline.
“Portugal is a state of law and must always be efficient in its investigations, being relentless with those who commit crimes,” added the presidential candidate, speaking to journalists during a visit to the Air Base in Montijo, Setúbal district.
If elected President of the Republic, António José Seguro pledged to keep a close eye on justice issues, which he deemed excessively slow, while taking into account the principle of the separation of powers, a cornerstone of the rule of law in Portugal.
“We need to find solutions with justice operators to ensure it is served on time, as slow justice often fails to deliver justice,” he emphasized.
“There is no justification for the excessive delays in many judicial processes. It’s not only the high-profile cases. Many companies and our economy suffer greatly due to pending cases in the Supreme Administrative Courts or Tax Courts, hindering economic activity. Our country needs growth and wealth,” he asserted.
When asked about the arrest of two Health Ministry employees suspected of illegally registering thousands of immigrants in the National Health Service, António José Seguro declared his stance against illegal immigration.
“I am against illegal immigration and am pleased that the Portuguese state acts to punish those who commit this crime. We need organized and legal immigration, as these immigrants contribute to the development of our economy and the sustainability of Social Security,” he said.
António José Seguro also justified his visit to the Montijo Air Base, highlighting the importance of the Armed Forces, which he considers “a pillar of democracy and our sovereignty” uniting all Portuguese people.
“I want to express my respect and, above all, my gratitude and recognition to the men and women serving in the Armed Forces, particularly in the Air Force,” said the candidate, commending the social work and services provided by the Montijo search and rescue squad, which has saved 5,252 lives.
