During a visit to a metallurgical company in Santa Maria da Feira, Aveiro district, Rui Rocha was once again questioned about the possibility of a post-election coalition with the AD.
“There is a clear commitment to the Portuguese people to deliver a stable governing solution. Instability in the country will not come from IL (Iniciativa Liberal), but the question that needs to be asked is whether others are willing to support the acceleration that IL wants for the country, particularly in housing, health, taxes, and economic growth,” he stated.
Rui Rocha emphasized that he has been “very clear” about whom IL is willing to align with, dismissing the possibility of a post-election agreement with Chega or the PS, labeling their proposals as socialist and dirigiste, potentially leading to significant economic challenges.
“Now, having remained consistent in my stance, the question should be posed to others: are they willing to embrace the transformative pace that IL demands for the country?” he challenged.
Amid persistent questioning from journalists on the matter, Rui Rocha stated that the purpose of an electoral campaign is not to be “perpetually discussing scenarios,” reinforcing that he will be “responsible the day after” and will “contribute to a governing solution for the country.”
“I am asking for the strength that the Portuguese can give us so we can be highly demanding with all political solutions, across all scenarios the day after,” he remarked, emphasizing that the Portuguese system is parliamentary and requires negotiations.
“The day after, the responsible proposals, the propositions for change, will need to be discussed. It is normal; this is how the parliamentary system functions,” he noted, asserting that he will be demanding and will not forgo two fundamental aspects: “bringing stability and change to the country.”
When asked whether he fears IL could become redundant if it fails to form a majority with the AD, Rui Rocha replied, “We will all be redundant to the extent that we are incapable of transforming the country.”
Regarding the possibility of a government program between AD and IL being viable in parliament, Rui Rocha commented, “It depends on the strength that the Portuguese give to IL.”
“If they give us the strength we aspire to, everything will be in place to change and move in the right direction, to have economic freedom, growth, so our young people can settle in Portugal. Political stability is only worthwhile if it creates opportunities for the Portuguese in terms of their growth,” he argued.
