Lisbon's Political Poster Purge: A Controversial Move by Mayor Moedas

Political Posters Removed in Lisbon

The Lisbon City Council, led by Mayor Carlos Moedas, has initiated the removal of political advertising posters from Alameda Dom Afonso Henriques, aiming to cleanse the public space of visual pollution that has plagued it for years. This action follows a similar move made at the Marquês de Pombal roundabout.

Controversy Over Freedom of Expression

The Portuguese Communist Party (PCP) has condemned this decision, labeling it an affront to the freedom of expression and political propaganda, rights enshrined in the Portuguese Constitution. The PCP argues that the removal of these political structures, while allowing commercial advertisements by JCDecaux to remain, highlights a double standard in the city's management.

Justifications for Removal

The city justified the removals as part of a broader effort to protect the heritage of the area, echoing the rationale used previously for the Marquês de Pombal. However, the PCP countered that Moedas' administration seems to prioritize commercial interests over political expression, pointing out contradictions in the handling of heritage preservation versus political messaging.

Ongoing Political Struggle

Furthermore, the PCP has publicly opposed the notification from the city council for the removal of political advertising, claiming it constitutes an attack on political rights. They assert that the ongoing actions of Moedas and his administration reflect a broader trend of undermining fundamental democratic rights.

This incident underscores the tension between political expression and urban aesthetics in Lisbon, as the city navigates the complexities of visual space and public discourse.