José Luís Carneiro presented his motion this Thursday at Largo do Rato, setting the stage for the votes on June 27 and 28. Running unopposed for the succession of Pedro Nuno Santos, Carneiro's focus is on the upcoming local elections, following a significant defeat in May's elections.
A 'deep reflection' is a recurring theme in Carneiro's motion to the socialists, a process postponed until after the local elections. His immediate priority is supporting the local candidates, not chosen by him but retained, aiming for victory in September/October. Carneiro's campaign has been marked by his nationwide support for socialist candidates.
Alexandra Leitão's candidacy for Lisbon's Municipal Chamber, a key legacy from Pedro Nuno Santos's leadership, stands out. Despite not appearing alongside Carneiro yet, Leitão has announced her departure from the party's leadership post-election. Similarly, Duarte Cordeiro, another prominent figure, has expressed reluctance to join the future leadership. Carneiro, however, emphasizes inclusivity, stating there's room for everyone. A close source reveals the new leadership won't engage in 'settling scores,' focusing instead on the party's grave situation and Carneiro's ambition to become Prime Minister.
Pacto Portugal Futuro
Carneiro's motion proposes a 'deep strategic reflection' post-congress to address current and future challenges, aiming to approve a Pacto Portugal Futuro. This pact seeks to reconnect the party with civil society to find solutions in sectoral policies, focusing on economic growth and public service and housing issues.
Avoiding the term 'Estados Gerais,' Carneiro plans to establish a strategic council advising the Secretary-General, comprising members, sympathizers, and independents. He also advocates for statutory revisions to adapt the party to new challenges and the pact.
Carneiro reiterates openness to consensuses with AD on sovereignty matters but criticizes the constitutional revision as a right-wing radical opportunistic move, urging PSD to safeguard democratic principles.
Assuming leadership without opposition, with the party as the third political force, Carneiro faces the daunting task of restoring the socialists' prominence. Despite the apparent unanimity, challenges loom, yet his close associates highlight his resilience, tracing back to his beginnings as a local leader in Baião.
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