Former Socialist Party (PS) deputy Ascenso Simões took to social media on Saturday to express criticism towards the PS Secretary-General Pedro Nuno Santos, advising him to “radically change” and to “avoid the traps set by the AD [PSD/CDS Coalition]” while focusing on addressing the country and the Portuguese people.
“Can someone instruct PNS [Pedro Nuno Santos] to steer clear of the traps being set by the AD and to discuss matters pertaining to the country and its citizens? What relevance does the PS leader find in Deputy Hugo Carneiro? And why the focus on the government campaigning with state funds, a practice long common?” questioned the former Secretary of State in a Facebook post.
He urged Santos to “speak to the Portuguese people, be pedagogical, calm, friendly, avoid vulgar language, and not categorize people into good and bad”.
Highlighting a recent nationwide blackout, Simões criticized the lack of proposals or a clear path the PS would take if in government, describing the discourse as “mere chatter of no interest”.
Simões highlighted that significant areas such as the economy and healthcare seem to lack tangible solutions from the PS and called for “examples involving real people”.
He remarked that people notice the growing radicalization in political life and observe that the PS does not appear moderate, accessible, or inspiring, but rather showcases itself with posters and posts reminiscent of Cuban-style militancy.
He argued against elitism, stating, “Stop the elitism that alienates millions who enjoy Tony Carreira and feel undervalued for it. This elitism, stemming from a small circle with media access and connections gained from governmental ranks, yet disconnected from the real country, is our greatest misfortune. We must manage the country as it truly is, not as we wish it to be.”
Simões emphasized the need for “word choice, concise speeches” and “genuine smiles that do not appear forced compensations for nervousness and irritability”.
“PNS must understand that this isn’t sustainable and must enact radical changes. Time is running out…” he concluded.
