Government's Attempt to Dampen April 25 Celebrations Fails, Only Cancels Tony Carreira Concert

Government's Actions on April 25 Celebrations

The Secretary-General of the PCP, Paulo Raimundo, stated on Thursday in Setúbal that the Government attempted to undermine the April 25 celebrations but only succeeded in canceling the concert of Tony Carreira. He emphasized that the people are celebrating the revolution day as usual.

Public Response and Celebrations

"The answer is here," remarked Raimundo while addressing journalists during a performance by Portuguese rapper Slow J, which attracted thousands, predominantly young people, at Largo José Afonso, Setúbal. He pointed out that the only decision made by the Government was indeed the cancellation of Carreira's concert in São Bento.

The Government cited the three days of mourning and the death of Pope Francis as reasons for their actions. However, Raimundo argued that, had Pope Francis been present, he would have encouraged the celebration of the freedom won by the people.

Remarks on Government Decisions

Raimundo also commented on the Government's request to Brussels to activate the safeguard clause to exempt future defense investments from European budgetary rules. He warned that Portuguese citizens will ultimately bear the cost of these expenses.

Financial Implications

He stated, "The Government has decided that each of us will have to contribute, incur debt, to supply NATO warehouses and the Military Industrial Complex. We will be forced to purchase unnecessary items for a war that only benefits the profits of that Military Complex."

Raimundo highlighted the recurring pattern of financial burdens falling on the same individuals, drawing parallels with past crises, including the real estate crisis and the pandemic. He asserted that while these costs may not appear immediately in the budget, they will inevitably come back to affect the same people financially.