Civic Association Launches to Support Admiral Gouveia e Melo's Presidential Bid

A New Civic Movement for Gouveia e Melo

A civic association was officially launched on Friday, aiming to provide "the necessary support" for Admiral Henrique Gouveia e Melo to pursue a candidacy in the upcoming presidential elections. This initiative is backed by several prominent figures from the Social Democratic Party (PSD).

Named "Honrar Portugal", in reference to an opinion piece by Gouveia e Melo titled "Honrar a Democracia", published in Expresso in February, the association is linked to the "Movimento Gouveia e Melo Presidente", which the admiral requested to be registered as a trademark with the National Institute of Industrial Property (INPI) last week.

Key Supporters

Among the notable supporters of this association are:

• Former President of the Regional Government of Madeira, Alberto João Jardim
• Former Minister of Internal Administration, Ângelo Correia
• Former parliamentary leader of PSD, Adão Silva
• Mayors of Cascais and Oeiras, Carlos Carreiras and Isaltino Morais
• Former Minister of Foreign Affairs, António Martins da Cruz

Additionally, support comes from former CDS leader Francisco Rodrigues dos Santos, former Chief of Staff of the Navy Melo Gomes, and others.

A Call for Leadership

In statements to Lusa, Catarina Santos Cunha, a city councilor in Porto and one of the founders, expressed that the initiative arose "spontaneously" from citizens who believe Gouveia e Melo is the right leader for the country. She emphasized his courage, sense of mission, and ability to unite the Portuguese around fundamental values such as freedom, solidarity, and responsibility.

Gouveia e Melo, in a statement, expressed his honor at this civil movement, highlighting the importance of active citizenship in a democratic society. He extended his heartfelt thanks to all participants and supporters.

Upcoming Initiatives

To formally mark its launch, the association unveiled its official website and plans to hold its first event on World Water Day with a rafting event in Arouca, where Gouveia e Melo will be present. The association aims to organize various events, including debates, to allow Gouveia e Melo to connect with supporters and encourage him to run for the Presidency of the Republic.

Catarina Santos Cunha clarified that Gouveia e Melo’s support for the association does not guarantee his candidacy but reflects his ongoing consideration of the matter.

Founders and Influencers

Among the founders are prominent figures such as constitutional expert Teresa Violante, President of the Portuguese Association of Marketing Professionals Carlos Sá, Director of the Madame Tussaud Museum in New York Tiago Mogadouro, and former Commander General of the Maritime Police João Dores Aresta.