A call for serious debates in the country was made, emphasizing the need for discussions free from mere mutual accusations or easily manipulated cases.
The purpose of these debates is to understand the seriousness of programs and evaluate their advantages and disadvantages, providing a clear stance when it comes to voting.
José Ornelas urged citizens to vote, underscoring that choosing the country’s leaders is not merely an option, but a duty.
Speaking at the end of the 211th Plenary Assembly of the Episcopal Conference of Portugal (CEP) in Fátima, Ourém municipality, Santarém district, Ornelas recalled the 50th anniversary of Portugal’s first free elections, a milestone not to be overlooked.
“Voting is not an option; it is a duty. And it is for everyone. This is also our way of telling politicians: we are watching. This is not about casting doubt on those who govern us, but about supporting those we believe govern well while being critical of those who do not,” emphasized the CEP president.
The Bishop of the Diocese of Leiria-Fátima also stressed that participation is fundamental in the democratic process.
“A Christian does not abstain. A Christian votes. If one must vote blank, then vote blank, but one must vote. What I cannot do is say: I was among those who did not go,” he insisted.
Addressing the blackout that left Portugal in darkness on Monday, Ornelas argued for a serious analysis, stating that beyond establishing accountability, it is crucial to prepare to prevent recurrence.
“It is important to establish accountability and possibly assign blame. More importantly, solutions must be found to address potential deficiencies, to understand why this happened and why it took so long to find a solution,” he noted.
