Summary:
Hugo Soares confirms Luís Montenegro as the PSD's candidate for prime minister in potential early elections.
Soares believes stability is essential for the country, opposing the need for early elections.
He challenges the PS's proposed parliamentary inquiry, suggesting they could have asked the prime minister directly.
Concerns over the complexity of income declarations were raised, comparing it to historical precedents.
Soares defends the prime minister's independence in communication with the President.
PSD's Confidence in Leadership
In a recent statement, Hugo Soares, the Secretary-General of the PSD (Social Democratic Party), reassured that the party remains united. He emphasized that, should there be early elections, Luís Montenegro will be the party's candidate and is expected to win.
Soares spoke to SIC Notícias, asserting that while he believes there are no conditions for early elections—stating that "the country needs stability and the people want stability"—he confirmed Montenegro's candidacy if the situation arises. He stated, "If there are elections - which I hope there won't be - the candidate for prime minister will be our great prime minister: Luís Montenegro. I am absolutely certain that the entire PSD stands with the president of the PSD."
Opposition and Inquiries
As the country braces for a debate and vote on a second motion of censure against the Government within 15 days, Soares expressed doubts regarding the parliamentary inquiry proposed by the PS (Socialist Party). He remarked, "Pedro Nuno Santos proposes a parliamentary inquiry, but he could have sent questions to the prime minister, and he would have to respond." He also urged the PS leader to support the PCP’s motion of censure during the upcoming vote.
Transparency Concerns
Soares raised concerns about the complexity of the income declaration required by the Transparency Authority, sharing his difficulties in completing it. He argued that historical figures like Mário Soares and Francisco Pinto Balsemão maintained their business interests while in office, implying that Montenegro should likewise retain his company's rights. "This is ad hominem. In fact, it is ad hominem and ad familia," he concluded.
Communication with the President
Regarding Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa’s complaints about not being informed of Montenegro's communication to the nation, Soares defended the prime minister's autonomy, stating that "presidents do not have to consult governments". He clarified that the communication was about the prime minister's character rather than government policies, despite it being preceded by meetings with the government.
Soares also noted that Rebelo de Sousa and Montenegro met at the Palácio de Belém, but details of their discussion remain undisclosed.
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