“Francisco Pinto Balsemão was one of the founders of our Republic of April, a democrat and an unconditional lover of freedom,” stated Fernando Cabecinha in a communiqué.
The leader of the biggest and oldest Portuguese Masonic obedience described Pinto Balsemão as “one of the men who deeply marked the Contemporary History of Portugal” in the second half of the 20th century and the first decade of the 21st century.
Fernando Cabecinha highlights in his note the journey of Pinto Balsemão as a “public man, journalist, politician, an exemplary media professional, and a major figure in Portuguese culture,” who early on “distinguished himself in the fight against dictatorship, in the name of freedom and citizenship” even before April 25.
The Masonic leader also emphasizes the “fundamental role in the democratic process, conducting free elections, and drafting the Portuguese Fundamental Law,” in the founding of the PPD/PSD, which he led for a time, and served as a minister and prime minister “during moments of great demand.”
“As a professional, he was an outstanding businessman, who established and led the largest Portuguese media group, where absolute freedom of expression always endured, as testified by all who knew him. He launched, among others, two projects that became two of the most relevant and impressive brands in Portuguese media: Expresso and SIC,” the communiqué reads.
In the statement, Fernando Cabecinha pays homage and expresses condolences to the family of Pinto Balsemão on behalf of all the masons who are part of the obedience he presides over.
“We are certain that his legacy of Freedom will endure forever,” he declares.
Francisco Pinto Balsemão, former PSD leader, ex-prime minister, and founder of Expresso and SIC, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 88.
The government declared two days of national mourning to coincide with the funeral ceremonies, which commenced on Wednesday and conclude today.
