During remarks to journalists at the pavilion hosting the 10th National Convention of IL in Alcobaça, Cotrim Figueiredo was asked about his potential candidacy for the Presidency of the Republic following his speech expressing readiness for “all battles” and calls for him to run for Belém.
“I have not decided to run. I have decided to be available, and now there are contacts that can be made, which were previously impossible, allowing me to reach a final decision soon,” replied the IL leader from 2019 to 2023.
When questioned about the factors influencing his decision to pursue a presidential bid, Cotrim Figueiredo said: “Without revealing much, my idea is not to run a campaign similar to those seen before.”
“This requires the readiness of other entities to walk this path with me,” he emphasized.
When asked if Mariana Leitão’s support as the next IL leader would be sufficient for his candidacy decision, Cotrim Figueiredo responded: “No, I assume that support will be natural.”
“I am not dependent on that; I rely on other contacts and availabilities,” he stated, noting previous discussions with Mariana Leitão on the matter and mentioning that his willingness emerged “simultaneously” with suggestions from inside and outside the party.
Regarding whether a potential presidential candidacy would indicate an IL reliance on his persona, Cotrim Figueiredo replied that he is aware “there will be those who interpret it that way.”
“I would also like alternatives to deliver similar electoral results, but I can say honestly that at the moment, they do not exist,” he said.
The current IL MEP stated that if he decides to run for the presidency, it would be a “service” to the liberal cause and those disenchanted with the existing candidate choices, particularly the dynamic youth in Portuguese society.
Regarding expectations of any right-wing agreement if he becomes a candidate, Cotrim Figueiredo replied that he does not anticipate one and intends for his campaign to be “less party-oriented than others.”
He plans to retain his European Parliament mandate if he runs for president, citing the precedent of other MEPs running without hindrance to their duties.
“It will be a bit more challenging, my schedule will be busier, but I intend to fulfill my political duties with the utmost responsibility,” he stated.
