Lisbon Assembly Divided Over Police Operation in Martim Moniz: A Clash of Perspectives

Lisbon Assembly Plenary Divided

A police operation conducted a month ago in the Martim Moniz area has sparked significant debate in the Lisbon Municipal Assembly. The assembly approved a motion from the PSD (Social Democratic Party) expressing solidarity with the Public Security Police (PSP).

Controversial Motions

During the meeting, a motion submitted by the Livre party expressing support for the protest "Don't Push Us Against the Wall" was also discussed. This protest took place on January 11, attracting thousands along Avenida Almirante Reis in response to the police operation on December 19.

The Livre motion aimed to show solidarity with individuals facing racism, xenophobia, and discrimination. However, it was ultimately rejected due to votes against from five members of the PS, alongside other parties including PSD, IL, PPM, Aliança, CDS-PP, Chega, and an independent deputy.

The PSD's Support for the PSP

The PSD's motion, which recognized the efforts of the PSP, was approved despite opposition from the BE, Livre, PEV, PCP, and some independent deputies. It emphasized the PSP's role in security, combating crime, and maintaining public order, asserting their essential contribution to creating a safe city.

Heated Discussions

The discussions were marked by protests, particularly from the PSD and Livre parties, following presentations of the motions. PSD deputy Carlos Reis highlighted the end of the previous consensus regarding the PSP, stressing the need for unity on Lisbon's security and condemning attempts to undermine the police's legitimacy.

Reis defended the police operation as legal, countering claims of racism, and criticized those protesting against the police action. He called for a united front in ensuring safety in Lisbon.

Perspectives on Police Actions

The Livre party's Patrícia Robalo condemned the police operation, linking it to wider issues of discrimination and stigmatization of diverse communities. She asserted that the PSP's data refutes claims of rising crime rates and denounces the false association between crime and immigration.

In contrast, PSD member Luís Newton expressed that the accusations of racism were unacceptable and labeled them an offense. He emphasized that crime knows no nationality and criticized the left for perceived biases in their approach to crime.

Opposition Voices

Deputies from the BE and PCP criticized the PSD's alignment with right-wing rhetoric, calling for a more community-focused approach to policing. The president of the Santa Maria Maior Parish, Miguel Coelho, pointed out that merely increasing police presence without addressing infrastructural issues like lighting and surveillance would not resolve safety concerns.

These discussions reflect a broader tension in Lisbon regarding policing, community safety, and the diverse perspectives on how to address crime and security.