The Socialist Party (PS) candidate for Lisbon City Council, Alexandra Leitão, has expressed openness to the idea of holding referendums on traffic-related issues in the capital, improving the existing drainage plan, and reviving both existing and new housing programs.
In an interview with the newspaper Público and the radio station Rádio Renascença, Leitão emphasized that she does not generally support national referendums, preferring representative democracy over direct democracy. However, she acknowledged that at the local level, referendums can serve as a valuable tool for community engagement. “But locally it has other benefits, it’s a matter of proximity to ask: ‘Do you want this street closed to traffic or not?’ If situations arise where it is justified to listen to people due to proximity, I clearly admit that,” she explained.
Regarding the drainage plan currently being executed by the municipality, Leitão pointed out the complexities involved, which are tied to engineering and architecture. She noted that these matters will require thorough examination once she gains access to them, stating, “I need to study them in depth when I have access.” She refrained from committing to any specific measures, stressing the need to assess potential improvements and recognizing that suspending a project of this magnitude is “complicated and will have its costs.”
“We identified 17 buildings with housing potential, which the municipality should acquire,” emphasized Leitão.
In terms of housing — a pressing issue both locally and nationally — Leitão asserted that it must be a priority, supporting not only rental assistance but also accessible rent programs. She advocated for the revival of previously considered programs for areas like Benfica, Restelo, and Santa Clara, highlighting the availability of several buildings due to shifts in government and central administration services. “We identified 17 buildings with housing potential, which the municipality should acquire,” she pointed out.
“An internal succession war could open up within the PSD,” Leitão added.
The Socialist criticized the current president of Lisbon City Council, Carlos Moedas, for hesitating in his mayoral bid, speculating that he might be waiting to see developments concerning Luís Montenegro’s future in the Social Democratic Party (PSD).
Moedas has postponed any decision on a potential reelection bid until after the early legislative elections scheduled for May 18. Leitão, who has been the leader of the PS parliamentary group, commented, “That tells a story. Depending on how things turn out for the PSD, and specifically for Luís Montenegro, an internal succession war could open up within the PSD in which Carlos Moedas might have an interest.”
