A Solemn Commemoration
On this Friday, Portugal marks the 51st anniversary of the April Revolution and the 50th anniversary of the first free elections. The solemn session takes place with the Parliament dissolved and a national mourning following the death of Pope Francis.
Remembering the Past
Communist MP António Filipe, the longest-serving member of Parliament, opened the session with a tribute to Pope Francis, expressing the PCP's appreciation for his efforts in promoting dialogue and fighting intolerance. He highlighted how, 51 years ago, the military liberated Portugal from a 48-year terror dictatorship characterized by corruption and suppression of freedoms. Filipe emphasized the importance of protecting the first truly democratic Constitution.
A Call for Reflection
Today’s commemoration honors the military of April, the constitutional deputies, and the antifascist resistors, while many Portuguese feel disillusioned by unfulfilled promises and a government distant from the people's needs.
Honoring the Fallen
Isabel Mendes Lopes from the Livre party paid tribute to the April captains who passed away this year, reminding attendees of the symbolism of the carnations in the revolution. She warned that the moment is threatening, highlighting rising hate speech and attacks on the press, urging citizens to vote as if their lives and freedoms depended on it.
Current Political Landscape
Paulo Núncio, leader of the CDS-PP, addressed recent political instability, urging citizens to avoid leaving stability in the hands of opposition parties. He noted the government's achievements in boosting salaries, improving pensions, and reducing taxes, asserting that these successes motivate the middle class to support the AD in upcoming elections.
Remembering a Legacy
Inês Sousa Real from the PAN party stressed the urgency of celebrating April and reflected on the 50th anniversary of the first elections. She pointed out the ongoing silent war against domestic violence and called for an end to cruelty against animals and the planet, echoing Pope Francis's messages.
A Moment of Silence
A unanimous vote of condolence for Pope Francis was observed with a minute of silence, acknowledging his twelve years of papacy, which called for fraternity, mercy, and peace. The Parliament's president commemorated the Pope's efforts to highlight critical global issues, emphasizing his connection to Portugal through multiple visits and the creation of four Portuguese cardinals.
Final Thoughts
In this session, the spirit of April 25 was revived, reminding all present of the importance of democracy and the ongoing struggle for the rights of the people.
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