The candidacy of António José Seguro for the presidency has received significant backing from all four former and current leaders of the General Union of Workers (UGT) since its inception. Among these leaders are Torres Couto, João Proença, Carlos Silva, and Mário Mourão.

João Proença, who led the UGT from 1995 to 2013, stated his support for Seguro, citing him as a “President of confidence, fulfilling commitments with principles and values” that he shares. Proença emphasized values such as defending “a fair and supportive country, developed and cohesive, the social state, and the rights and freedoms of all,” with respect for the Constitution. “For him, workers matter,” he praised.

Carlos Silva, who was at the helm of the union from 2013 to 2022, expressed in his message of support that “Portuguese democracy will gain a substantial boost in its consolidation, benefiting all workers, with a presidential election grounded on a candidate with immense social sensitivity, dialogue, and respect for workers’ rights,” referring to Seguro. “We need a haven that respects the rights, freedoms, and guarantees won over the past 50 years,” he stressed.

The endorsements of current UGT Secretary-General Mário Mourão, as well as Torres Couto, have previously been reported in the media in recent months.