Lisbon's Mayoral Race Heats Up: Accusations Fly Over TikTok Politics and Neglect

Rui Tavares, spokesperson for the Livre party, has accused Lisbon's mayor, Carlos Moedas, of using the city for his personal gain on TikTok and political career. In a speech during the presentation of the "Viver Lisboa" coalition's candidate for the Areeiro parish council, Tavares stated, "Lisbon does not need a president who uses Lisbon for his vanity, for his TikTok, and for his political career, but forgets to take care of what needs to happen every day."

At a public garden near Avenida de Roma, Tavares challenged Lisbon residents to answer a "very simple question" in the upcoming municipal elections on October 12: "Who will work more for Lisbon, Carlos Moedas or Alexandra Leitão?" He questioned who would pay more attention to details, study more, and ensure things run smoothly, asserting that "no one has the slightest doubt" that Alexandra Leitão would do a better job.

Alexandra Leitão, the former minister and PS parliamentary leader, also spoke at the event, emphasizing her goal to "care for Lisbon," which she described as "so neglected, degraded, and sloppy." She highlighted that the "Viver Lisboa" coalition—comprising PS, Livre, BE, and PAN—is a movement for the city, united not against anyone but for Lisbon. Leitão aims to make Lisbon a "more cared-for" and "less unequal" city, citing priorities such as housing, mobility, urban hygiene, culture, and science.

Architect Helena Roseta, a former constituent deputy, expressed support for Leitão's candidacy, noting that it's time, 50 years after the April 25 revolution, to put a woman at the helm of the capital. Roseta advocated for making politics joyful and citizen-driven, urging the coalition to transform their campaign into a movement for all citizens, especially those who are forgotten.