Summary:
Rui Rocha reelected as president of Iniciativa Liberal with 73.4% of the votes.
Rocha emphasizes the need to accelerate Portugal and acknowledges room for improvement.
Freedom of expression defended as a sacred value amidst critiques of identity politics.
Party to propose new security measures in Parliament on February 12.
Leadership changes include a 36% renewal in the executive committee.
Rui Rocha's Reelection at the IX National Convention
The Iniciativa Liberal has reelected Rui Rocha as its president during the IX National Convention held this Sunday. Rocha secured 73.4% of the votes, while his opponent, Rui Malheiro, received 26.6%.
In his victory speech, Rocha stated, "Let's move forward, let's accelerate Portugal". He emphasized that this result confirms the party's unity around a largely consensual political program and leadership aimed at transforming Portugal.
Humility and Challenges Ahead
While celebrating his victory, Rocha acknowledged the need for improvement and recognized the criticisms voiced during the convention. He stated, "There are certainly things to improve".
Rocha also expressed strong opinions on various issues, notably denouncing identity politics and 'woke-ism', asserting that "there is no better place than a convention of liberals to declare their death". However, he defended freedom of expression as a sacred value, warning against its limitations.
Security Concerns Raised
Addressing concerns about security, Rocha remarked, "Portugal is a safe country, but there are certain types of crime, particularly in some areas, that are worrying". He affirmed that the Iniciativa Liberal would actively engage in discussions about security policies in Portugal, proposing to present a legislative package aimed at enhancing public safety on February 12.
This package includes proposals to amend the penal regime for serious crimes, such as human trafficking and domestic violence, to increase penalties that are currently misaligned with social realities.
Leadership Changes
Rui Rocha has been reelected for a second two-year term, having first been elected in January 2023. His election list includes a renewal of around 36% of the executive committee, with nine new members and an equal number of departures. Notably, Mariana Leitão, the parliamentary leader of the IL and now a presidential candidate, will serve as vice-president.
The convention marked only the second internal leadership contest in the party's history, following Rocha's previous win in 2023.
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