In a statement, Councillor Ana Rita Silva announced her departure from the political party under which she was elected in 2021, citing the decision was communicated to the party on April 9, 2025.
Silva explained that after an extensive internal process within the PSD regarding the selection of a candidate for the upcoming municipal elections, in which she had expressed willingness to participate in an AD coalition (PSD and CDS), the local and district branches of the PSD made their choice based on criteria they deemed appropriate.
“In the justification I use to underpin my opinions, I felt that I did not agree with the political evaluation made by the PSD,” she stated.
Silva further emphasized that values such as transparency, integrity, and loyalty are fundamental in building a more cohesive and supportive community.
“And thus, out of consistency of my stance—someone who has never been part of youth party structures and who views politics as a service mission to the community, not as a strategic career move—I freely made this decision with the peace of mind of someone who has always served with dedication, diligence, and care,” she added.
The councillor clarified that she participated as an independent in the social-democratic list during the 2021 municipal elections. Concerning the upcoming elections, expected in September or October, the PSD inquired about her willingness to be a candidate.
“I replied that I was available as an independent to continue collaborating with the PSD. They decided to choose André Sousa, and respecting that decision, I chose to step aside,” Silva stated.
Silva expressed disappointment with the PSD’s decision after being considered a potential candidate but ultimately not being selected.
When asked if she plans to run with another party, Silva said she was uncertain.
The independent movement “Batalha é de Todos” currently leads the Batalha Municipality, having won four of the seven seats from the PSD in the 2021 municipal elections. The remaining seats belong to the social-democrats.
For the upcoming municipal elections, the PSD has chosen 31-year-old economist André Sousa, who presides over the social-democratic local branch, as their candidate for the Batalha Municipality. Meanwhile, Chega has nominated businessman Joel Esperança as their leading candidate.
