The Socialist Party (PS) anticipates the upcoming National Autarchic Convention as a pivotal event for affirming the values and policies of socialist mayors, promoting development, cohesion, and the enhancement of both territories and their residents. This gathering also aims to support “thousands of mayoral candidates” within the party, described by PS leader José Luís Carneiro as reliable and dutiful individuals.
With municipal elections slated for October 12, the PS is set to kick off its political season with an event at the Convento de São Francisco in Coimbra on Saturday. A highly anticipated moment will be José Luís Carneiro’s closing speech.
Before the concluding address, scheduled for 1 p.m., attendees will be introduced to the socialist mayors’ electoral manifesto, titled “Saber ouvir e dar voz a Portugal” (Know how to listen and give voice to Portugal).
A central feature of the convention will be discussion panels under the theme “Socialist Municipalities: Proximity that Transforms,” featuring 11 speakers covering various topics.
Highlighted speakers include PS candidates for the Lisbon and Porto councils: Alexandra Leitão discussing “quality of life: mobility, public space, and housing,” and Manuel Pizarro addressing how to “resolve the housing crisis in cities.”
Former Finance Minister Fernando Medina will tackle “economic development and local finance: accurate accounts serving territories, and a new local finance law that reinforces municipalities.” Duarte Cordeiro, former Environment Minister, will focus on “environment: green transition, protect today, ensure tomorrow.”
Health issues will be discussed by Paulo Arsénio, President and re-candidate for the Beja Council, while education will be covered by Isabel Ferreira, a former official and candidate for the Bragança Council.
Ana Mendes Godinho, the PS candidate for Sintra and former minister, will speak on social affairs, with ex-State Secretary Isabel Oneto focusing on security matters.
Carlos Zorrinho, the candidate for the Évora Council, will participate in the cohesion funds panel, whereas Paulo Pereira, President of the Baião Council, will discuss transparency and democracy quality. Academic Paulo Simões will explore artificial intelligence in local administration.
The opening session, starting at 9:30 a.m., will feature PS President Carlos César among others, followed by a tribute to former and current socialist presidents of the Portuguese National Association of Municipalities (ANMP) and the National Association of Parishes (ANAFRE).
There will also be a segment titled “Identitarian Marks of PS in Local Power,” with contributions from university professor Rui Pena Pires, the leader of Socialist Women, Elza Pais, and the Secretary-General of Socialist Youth, Sofia Pereira.
