The Socialist Party (PS) plans to hold its municipal convention by the end of August or the beginning of September, intending to establish clear commitments regarding the fundamental principles and values guiding the political actions of its candidates. “Being a candidate in the name of the PS means being committed to constitutional values and fundamental human rights principles that must be safeguarded in every local community in this country,” emphasized the socialist candidate during the presentation of former Secretary of State Ana Sofia Antunes’s bid for Oeiras municipality.
Speaking to a packed auditorium at the José de Castro municipal facility in Oeiras, Carneiro was questioned by journalists regarding Pedro Gameiro, PS candidate for Benavente Municipality, who opposed the construction of a mosque in Samora Correia. This position prompted prominent socialists such as Augusto Santos Silva and Fernando Medina to urge the party to withdraw support for Gameiro’s candidacy.
When asked if support would be withdrawn from this candidacy, Carneiro stressed that the Socialists are “steadfast defenders of the values enshrined in the Constitution, as well as the values of religious freedom and freedom of worship.”
“We will defend these values in all circumstances and in every territory of our country, and that principle is safeguarded,” he assured.
During his address at the José de Castro municipal auditorium, the candidate for secretary-general asserted that the PS has been, is, and will continue to be the driving force behind local development. He noted that it was the Socialists who most significantly contributed to enhancing the responsibilities and competencies of municipalities and parishes.
“If you examine the entire legislative framework constructed in Parliament and the Government regarding democratic local power, you will conclude that it was through us that democratic local power progressed most, both in autonomy and financial means to materially affect people’s lives,” he argued.
José Luís Carneiro also highlighted the Socialist mark in the delegation of responsibilities and competencies, particularly in social development, professional training and qualification, primary health care, and public health. He emphasized their role in housing policies and the fight against poverty and inequalities, especially highlighting the Program for Extending the Social Equipment Network (PARES).
The Socialist Party advocates for the development of territorial planning instruments, as well as strengthening “the democratic legitimacy of regional power bodies,” not only in metropolitan areas but also within the Coordinating and Regional Development Commissions (CCDR).
Carneiro lavishly praised Ana Sofia Antunes, describing her as a “sensitive voice that does not succumb to obstacles or constraints.”
“It is this inner courage, this calm strength that we need in our democratic life,” he remarked.
Following comments by PS deputy Francisco César to Lusa, calling for government clarifications regarding U.S. aircraft stationed at Lajes Air Base in the Azores, José Luís Carneiro reiterated this appeal, stressing the need for more information from the executive, either publicly or “in more reserved discussions.”
When questioned about the presidential elections, Carneiro denied feeling pressured to decide on any potential PS support for a candidate. This comes at a time when former Socialist leader António José Seguro has officially entered the presidential race. Carneiro insisted that “after the municipal elections,” the party will be prepared to “address the matter.”
