Centeno Open to Political Return, Criticizes "Reckless" Contractual Doubts

Mário Centeno, still the Governor of the Bank of Portugal (BdP), appeared on RTP with a clear mission: to address the contractual uncertainties surrounding the future headquarters of the institution and to emphasize that its independence cannot be compromised. Although he did not wish to leave his position, he took the opportunity to congratulate Álvaro Santos Pereira, the Government's chosen successor, mentioning he was only informed of his non-reappointment by the Finance Minister. Without delving too deeply into personal beliefs, Centeno, who claims not to have "religious roots," left the door open for a potential return to politics, quoting, "The future belongs to God."

Mário Centeno during his interview on RTP

Centeno described the doubts raised about the contracts for the new central bank headquarters as "reckless", firmly stating that such questions should not undermine the institution's independence. His appearance was marked by a defense of the BdP's decisions and a subtle hint at future political engagements, sparking curiosity about his next steps.