Mariana Leitão: Iniciativa Liberal's Bold Choice for the 2026 Presidential Elections

Iniciativa Liberal Announces Mariana Leitão as Presidential Candidate

The leader of Iniciativa Liberal, Rui Rocha, has officially named Mariana Leitão as the party's candidate for the 2026 presidential elections. In a declaration filled with determination, Leitão, who has served as the party's parliamentary leader, emphasizes her commitment to the campaign, stating she is running for "freedom against fear". She aims to inspire ambition among the Portuguese people, advocating for a mindset of "being more" and rejecting conformism.

Photo: Tiago Petinga - Lusa

The announcement was made at the end of Rui Rocha's speech, who was re-elected as the party president, declaring, "Portugal needs Mariana Leitão", which drew applause from the audience in Loures.

Key Qualities for a Presidential Candidate

Rui Rocha highlighted the importance of the defense of freedom, rigor, and credibility as essential qualities for any presidential candidate. He stressed that the challenges facing Portugal are significant and that the nation requires hope, courage, and ambition moving forward.

Mariana Leitão's Background

At 42, Mariana Leitão has a solid political background, having been first elected as a deputy in 2024. She previously served as the head of the parliamentary group and was the president of the National Council from 2020 to 2022. A graduate in International Relations, she joined Iniciativa Liberal in 2019 and has also served as a municipal deputy in Oeiras.

Leitão insists her candidacy is rooted in the necessity of promoting liberal ideas in the presidential race, rather than opposing anyone. She firmly rejects the notion that the country has stagnated, advocating instead for ambition and hope. "This campaign will be positive," she assured.

A Campaign of Optimism

Leitão describes her candidacy as one of freedom against fear, embodying optimism, hope, and ambition. "I represent a Portugal that does not conform, that embraces the principles of individual freedom and the desire to strive for more," she expressed.

While she currently has no plans to step down from her leadership in parliament, she acknowledges that there is still much time to discuss future roles.

Looking Ahead

In her closing remarks, Leitão expressed her belief that having a second round in the elections scheduled for January next year is a normal expectation. Meanwhile, Rodrigo Saraiva, another potential candidate from Iniciativa Liberal, has already ruled out his candidacy for the presidential race.