Rui Rocha Slams Government for 'Misleading Advertising' at Iniciativa Liberal Convention

Iniciativa Liberal Convention Highlights

During the Iniciativa Liberal convention, Rui Rocha, the party leader, delivered a positive assessment of the party's actions while launching sharp criticisms at the current government led by Luís Montenegro. He accused the administration of failing to deliver on various fronts and described its actions as "misleading advertising", asserting that nothing substantial has changed in Portugal over the past few months.

"If I had to summarize the AD's journey in recent months, I would call it misleading advertising," Rocha stated.

Key Accusations Against the Government

Rocha specifically criticized the government for not delivering on its campaign promises, especially regarding economic progress. He highlighted the lack of tax reductions and pointed out the precarious situation of the National Health Service (SNS). He urged citizens to reflect on their experiences:

"Ask the companies if anything significant has changed in these months. Ask those reliant on the SNS how they are faring. Ask those waiting for consultations or surgeries. Ask the 1.5 million Portuguese without a family doctor if they are better off now."

Following his remarks on healthcare, Rocha addressed issues in education and the housing crisis in Portugal, criticizing the lack of proper incentives for property sales.

Unity Within the Party

Rocha also tackled the opposition from Rui Malheiro for the leadership of Iniciativa Liberal, dismissing claims of disunity within the party. He encouraged dialogue among all factions and supported open criticism:

"I believe that the notion of disunity within IL will be clarified with this convention."

Accompanied by Mariana Leitão, the current parliamentary leader of Iniciativa Liberal, Rocha expressed his intention for her to take the vice-presidency and hinted at a potential presidential candidate emerging soon.

Critiques of PS Leadership

In addition to the government criticisms, Rocha had strong words for Pedro Nuno Santos, leader of the Socialist Party (PS), stating he has "learned nothing" and suggesting a prolonged period of opposition for him:

"To those who learn nothing, we can only wish for a long stint away from power."

Rocha questioned the public's willingness to trust their money with the PS government, particularly regarding the €3.2 billion investment in TAP.

The State as a 'Spoiled Child'

In a vivid metaphor, Rocha likened the government to a "spoiled child", arguing that taxpayers are the true parents, and declared:

"The fun is over."

He presented a list of ten liberal principles aimed at improving the nation, emphasizing that the state is efficient only at taxing and limiting freedoms, while pursuing profits from individuals and businesses. He advocated for a smaller state and a focus on meritocracy, especially within public services, believing that wealth generation is the key to eradicating poverty.