“The only thing I ask of you as you leave here is to remember that the game is not over yet,” stated Rui Tavares to a packed room at the Almadense Academy in Almada, located in the Setúbal district. This electoral circle elected its first deputy in the last legislative elections.
In his half-hour speech, marked by numerous critiques of the political right, the Livre party leader expressed that many political figures believe election rules are akin to those in the national football championship, where victory goes to the one who finishes first.
“In the football championship, what matters is who comes first, but in parliamentary matters, it is about who can ensure governability of the country, who can establish a more coherent and consistent majority in parliament, and who can provide a support base for the government,” he clarified.
He added, “Do not confuse them, as they are very different rules.”
Encouraging the audience to consider the polls, a subject he addressed for the first time in this election campaign, Rui Tavares warned that “everything is at stake.”
“Everything is at stake because it is neck and neck between progress and ecology on one side and the alliance between ‘montenegrismo’ and ‘chainsawism’ on the other. So, until May 18, we must convince everyone and explain to them, not necessarily in my words but perhaps using those of the President of the Republic, who clearly tells us that it does not matter to appoint the prime minister of the party that finishes first,” he emphasized.
The Livre leader, frequently interrupted by applause, recalled that in the past, the left managed to unite and overcome challenges, alluding to the ‘geringonça’ coalition.
“The united left succeeded before, and it can succeed again,” he emphasized.
As he has throughout the campaign, Rui Tavares reiterated his willingness to take on roles in a progressive, ecological, and pro-European government.
