Political Clash in Lisbon: Moedas Accused of Lying as Parties Spar Over Gloria Elevator Tragedy

PCP Leader Warns Against Selling Grândola to "Big Interests"

Paulo Raimundo, Secretary-General of the PCP, issued a stark warning during a rally in Grândola, asserting that the people, not "big interests," are in charge of the municipality. He emphasized that there are those who want to "slice up and sell off" Grândola piece by piece, particularly targeting areas like the Troia Peninsula. Raimundo highlighted the CDU's pride in a project that serves economic activity and development without compromising principles or identity, insisting that there is no contradiction between economic growth and serving the people. He expressed confidence that CDU candidate Fátima Luzia will become the next mayor, succeeding António Figueira Mendes, who is term-limited.

Porto Candidate Pedro Duarte Appeals for "Useful Vote" in Tight Race

At a support lunch for his candidacy, Pedro Duarte (PSD/CDS/IL coalition) made a strong pitch for the "useful vote," framing the Porto election as a choice between two visions: the PS's focus on population growth and his coalition's emphasis on sustainable, balanced development. He criticized PS candidate Manuel Pizarro's proposal to build 5,000 homes, labeling it irresponsible and contrasting it with his own plan to honor the legacy of fiscal responsibility under previous administrations. Duarte also prioritized security, promising to address drug use, homelessness, and overcrowded housing through enhanced enforcement and collaboration with national authorities. He vowed to make Porto a pilot city for security effectiveness and to lead not just the city but the entire region.

Livre and BE Criticize PS and PSD Over Barracas and Populism in Loures

Rui Tavares, spokesperson for Livre, joined BE's Marisa Matias in Loures to condemn the political finger-pointing between PSD, PS, and PCP over who is to blame for the resurgence of shantytowns (barracas). Tavares accused PS mayor Ricardo Leão of following populism and lowering the political discourse by pitting neighbors against each other. He ruled out any alliance with Leão, citing his divisive policies. Marisa Matias stressed that their coalition offers an alternative focused on empathy and collective projects, criticizing the PS's housing policies in the municipality as inadequate and highlighting housing as a central issue.

Coimbra Coalition Pledges Urban Hygiene Overhaul and Sustainable Maintenance

Ana Abrunhosa, candidate for the Avançar Coimbra coalition (PS/Livre/PAN), outlined plans to reorganize urban hygiene and waste collection in response to widespread complaints about neglected public spaces and gardens. She proposed clarifying responsibilities, strengthening municipal oversight, and involving residents' associations as "proximity agents" for park and garden maintenance. Additional initiatives include setting up periodic bulky waste collection points and piloting selective bio-waste collection in hotels, restaurants, and schools. To minimize disruptions, Abrunhosa committed to using trenchless methods for sanitation works, citing potential time and social cost savings despite higher initial expenses.

Foreign Minister Paulo Rangel Comments on Gaza Peace Plan

At the Porto event, Foreign Minister Paulo Rangel addressed the Gaza conflict, welcoming Hamas's acceptance of a peace plan and Israel's readiness to negotiate. He described it as a "great opportunity for peace" and urged all parties to adhere strictly to the agreement, expressing hope for a ceasefire and a medium-term resolution.

Lisbon Mayor Carlos Moedas Confident Amid Campaign Trail Controversies

During a walkthrough in Alvalade, Carlos Moedas dismissed suggestions of a tight race, asserting that on the streets, he is always ahead. Accompanied by PSD ministers, he received enthusiastic support from residents, particularly the elderly, who expressed confidence in his re-election. Moedas highlighted achievements like a new parking lot and criticized opponent Alexandra Leitão's coalition as "a project led by the Left Bloc," accusing them of ideological blockages, such as opposing privately-built student residences. He emphasized the importance of street-level scrutiny and the continuity of his project.

Chega Candidate Bruno Mascarenhas Slams Moedas Over Gloria Elevator Tragedy Response

Bruno Mascarenhas, Chega's candidate for Lisbon mayor, sharply criticized Carlos Moedas after reports that some victims' families and the injured from the Gloria Elevator accident had not been contacted by the city council. Mascarenhas accused Moedas of being "completely lost" and making "nonsensical statements," emphasizing the gravity of the incident and its impact on the city's credibility. He condemned what he called hypocrisy in Moedas's claims about outreach efforts.