Controversy Erupts as Loures Mayor Ricardo Leão Resigns from PS Lisbon Federation

Ricardo Leão Resigns Amid Controversy

After nearly a week at the center of controversy for advocating the "ruthless eviction" of tenants involved in recent disturbances in the Lisbon Metropolitan Area, Ricardo Leão, the Mayor of Loures, has resigned from his position as the president of the Lisbon Urban Federation.

Leão's comments came in the wake of the unrest that led to numerous arrests and heightened tensions in the region. He stated that tenants who participated in the disturbances should be evicted without mercy.

This statement drew criticism from various quarters, including Pedro Nuno, who asserted that a leader of the Socialist Party (PS) should avoid making public judgments. Additionally, Ascenso Simões criticized Prime Minister António Costa, accusing him of aligning with fascist figures like Viktor Orbán and Giorgia Meloni.

Leão's resignation marks a significant shift in the political landscape of the Lisbon area, as the PS grapples with internal strife and public backlash over its handling of social issues.