The Social Democratic Party (PSD) leader, Luís Montenegro, addressed the media during a visit to Chaves, in the Vila Real district, in support of Marcelo Delgado, rival to the current Socialist mayor, Nuno Vaz.
Supporters frequently chanted “Marcelo, Marcelo,” highlighting the candidate’s shared name with the current President of the Republic.
Montenegro was asked whether having a PSD mayor would benefit relations with the government. He assured that the government would work equally with all mayors.
“I’ve often stated that not all mayors respond equally to the opportunities presented by central government policies,” he remarked.
He cited the “significant investment plan” in housing as an example, noting that not all municipalities take advantage of it as they should.
“As PSD president, I assure absolute proximity to mayors on our lists, comparable to the relationship we maintain with all other mayors while in government,” he reiterated.
When questioned if his national tour focuses on municipalities that PSD might “snatch” from the Socialist Party, Montenegro said his goal is to visit as many municipalities as possible to support PSD candidates.
In Chaves, he emphasized that the government has taken measures to “positively discriminate” low-density territories.
“It’s no coincidence that we’ve decided at least 40% of future funds must be allocated to low-density areas,” he stressed.
During a coffee stop in Chaves, a council candidate inquired about Montenegro’s campaign plans for the day, including visits to Vila Pouca de Aguiar, Porto, Guimarães, and Mafra.
“Goodness, dinner at what time? You can’t make it,” remarked the candidate.
Montenegro assured that departing Guimarães by 5:00 PM would allow him to attend the scheduled dinner in Mafra by 8:30 PM.
“Watch your speed,” she advised, to which the PSD leader responded he would remain “within limits.”
In Vila Pouca de Aguiar, Montenegro spent less than 30 minutes on a brief walk with supporters, concluding with a speech from a stage, a common practice in several municipalities.
He praised PSD candidate Ana Rita Dias, the current local mayor who took office in 2024, succeeding Alberto Machado, now a deputy.
“She’s a strong woman, a true Transmontan, fully qualified to govern this municipality,” Montenegro stated, predicting “a resounding victory” on October 12.
As always, he urged everyone to mobilize.
“In these remaining campaign days, we must continue fighting vote by vote: we know we’re ahead and are going to win, but victory only comes on election day,” he encouraged, wishing everyone “much work” in the coming week.
