The Secretary-General of the Portuguese Communist Party (PCP), Paulo Raimundo, criticized the government’s approach to the upcoming State Budget during a visit to the Arraiolos Carpet Interpretive Center in the Évora district. Raimundo declared that it’s not feasible to discuss the budget “bit by bit,” following Prime Minister António Costa’s confirmation of a new IRS reduction in the proposal.
Raimundo accused the prime minister of using strategic timing to release budget details, saying, “I know the prime minister’s tricks. He says the State Budget is only for after the elections, that he already has meetings planned. But he keeps tossing out tidbits,” he remarked.
He clarified he wouldn’t fall into the “prime minister’s trap,” emphasizing the electoral implications of Costa’s statements. When asked if the IRS announcement was an electoral tactic, Raimundo sarcastically replied, “No, it was a coincidence.”
He further criticized the prime minister’s tactics, suggesting it is no coincidence that favorable aspects of the budget are being publicized now, terming it a tactic to sway voters. Regarding Secretary-General of the PS José Luís Carneiro’s statements on the feasibility of the budget, Raimundo mentioned, “Everyone will have to take responsibility for their actions.”
Paulo Raimundo expressed skepticism towards the interactions between the PS and Chega, noting interest in the contest for governmental partnership. He insisted that those endorsing a budget representing the government’s continuation must “assume responsibility” for their decision.
He highlighted the responsibility associated with signing the budget, implicating that such an endorsement supports policies leading to undesirable outcomes. Fielding questions on the PCP’s stance, Raimundo affirmed the party’s plan to oppose the budget, which they view as perpetuating detrimental policies.
Raimundo criticized key areas of the budget, including the dismantling of the National Health Service (SNS), closure of emergency units, and continued declining response of public services. He pointed to the budget’s focus on reducing taxes for wealthier entities, specifically corporate tax (IRC).
He emphasized the budget’s opposition to the needs of the majority and against Portugal’s interests, questioning what role the PCP could play in supporting it. Prime Minister Luís Montenegro announced a new IRS reduction in the upcoming State Budget during a recent statement on Saturday.
