President Marcelo Holds Lisbon Mayor Politically Responsible for Gloria Funicular Tragedy

Political Accountability in the Wake of Tragedy

President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa has declared that the Mayor of Lisbon, Carlos Moedas, is politically responsible for the Gloria Funicular accident, which resulted in 16 fatalities and multiple injuries. This statement was made during a press conference following funeral ceremonies for the victims.

Key Statements from the President

Marcelo emphasized that anyone holding a political office is politically accountable for their actions, drawing a parallel to his own responsibility in writing to foreign heads of state on behalf of Portugal. He noted that while a full report is needed to assign specific blame, political responsibility exists in principle.

He reiterated, "Whoever leads a public institution answers politically for any mishaps, even without fault or direct involvement." This underscores the broader implications for public officials in such crises.

Electoral Context and Public Judgment

With local elections just over a month away, Marcelo pointed out that voters will have the opportunity to express their judgment on this matter. He stated that these elections will ensure that accountability is addressed, as "the blame does not die alone."

Initial Findings and Ongoing Investigations

An initial report on the derailment, which occurred on Wednesday at 6 PM, highlights many uncertainties and pending investigations. It states that it is not possible to determine the responsibility of individuals or organizations at this stage. Key questions remain, such as why a cable detached at a fixation point and why redundant braking systems failed.

Marcelo acknowledged the resignation offer from the president of Carris (the public transport company), citing Portuguese law where public institutions bear objective legal responsibility for such grave outcomes.

Condolences and National Mourning

The President extended condolences to the families of the Portuguese victims and to the heads of state of the foreign victims' countries. The government has declared a national day of mourning, and Lisbon's municipality has observed three days of municipal mourning.