President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa emphasized on Thursday the necessity for continuous commitment in the face of societal concerns, particularly advocating for the ongoing battle for democracy.
“The world is not an easy place, as we all know, but this only amplifies the responsibility of those defending democracy, freedom, equality, solidarity, and fraternity. It is essential to understand why the present and the future can be complex and concerning,” stated Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa during a speech at the 51st-anniversary dinner celebrating the April 25, 1974, Revolution, hosted by the Association 25 de Abril.
The President further noted, “There are fewer democracies and more dictatorships, and democracies are becoming less democratic, both in terms of freedom and equality, fostering concern.”
“In the face of concern, there is only one option: to move forward and continue the fight. There are no ties in societal life. Standing still means falling behind and losing. I leave these duties honored by having decorated all the April captains we could identify and recognize,” he mentioned, expressing gratitude towards the Association 25 de Abril for its contributions.
Outside, Marcelo commented that the government’s arrangements align with its perceived appropriate criteria, highlighting the national mourning days for Pope Francis were timed according to the funeral date.
“It contradicted the Vatican’s criterion, aligning with the funeral day,” he added.
It is noted that the gardens of the Prime Minister’s official residence in São Bento (Lisbon) will be open to the public on April 25 from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, with carnations being distributed, although there will be no formal celebration, and Luís Montenegro will be absent as he travels to Rome for the funeral of Pope Francis.
The festive celebrations of the 1974 Revolution have been postponed to May 1 out of respect for the mourning period following the death of Pope Francis, according to a spokesperson from Luís Montenegro’s office.
