Political Turmoil in Lisbon: Chega Party Files Censorship Motion Over Gloria Elevator Tragedy

Chega Demands Accountability for Lisbon's Gloria Elevator Disaster

In a bold political move, Bruno Mascarenhas, a municipal deputy for the Chega party and candidate for the Lisbon City Council, announced on Friday the submission of a motion of censorship against the city's executive. This action demands accountability for the recent accident involving the Gloria elevator, which resulted in significant casualties.

Key Statements from the Press Conference

Mascarenhas stated, "We have prepared a document that is a motion of censorship against this executive, to be discussed precisely next Tuesday. Engineer Moedas, if he so chooses and does not absent himself, will be in a position to debate this issue with us." He emphasized the need for "determining responsibilities on the part of the municipal executive."

Background on the Motion

The Lisbon Municipal Assembly, where Chega holds a group of three deputies, has the authority to vote on motions of censorship against the City Council. This is outlined in the assembly's regulations, allowing for evaluation of the council's actions or any of its members.

Party Leader's Perspective

Earlier, André Ventura, the leader of Chega, argued that the Lisbon City Council bears ultimate responsibility, as Carris—the company managing the elevator—is a public entity under municipal management. Ventura questioned, "What would Carlos Moedas, who called for Fernando Medina's resignation in 2021 over data transmission to the Russian embassy, say to the Moedas of 2025 after 16 deaths in the capital's center?" He stressed that demanding accountability is not political exploitation but a necessity.

Solidarity and Calls for Prevention

Ventura expressed solidarity with the victims and their families, urging measures to "ensure that such situations do not repeat." He highlighted the impact on Lisbon's and Portugal's image, stating, "The image of Lisbon and the country cannot be affected by a tragedy of this magnitude."

Details of the Accident

The Gloria elevator, a popular tourist attraction managed by Carris, connects Restauradores to Jardim de São Pedro de Alcântara in the Bairro Alto. On Wednesday, it derailed, causing 16 fatalities and 23 injuries. In response, the government declared a national day of mourning on Thursday, while the Lisbon City Council decreed three days of municipal mourning from Thursday to Saturday.