PSP Denies Approval for April 25th Protests at Martim Moniz: A Controversial Decision

PSP Issues Negative Opinion on Protests

The PSP (Polícia de Segurança Pública) announced on Thursday that it has decided to issue a negative opinion regarding the protests scheduled for April 25th at Martim Moniz, following a standard risk assessment. The decision aims to "ensure public order and tranquility."

The protests, organized by the political party Ergue-te and the movement Habeas Corpus, are backed by the far-right group 1143, led by Mário Machado. The event, titled "Portugal descends into the caliphate," is promoted as a nationalist celebration. Concurrently, the traditional April 25th celebration parade will take place on Avenida da Liberdade.

Initial Positive Opinion Reversed

Initially, the PSP had given a positive opinion for the far-right gathering at Martim Moniz. However, upon discovering other antagonistic protests scheduled for the same location and time, the decision was reevaluated. In their statement, the PSP encourages the public to adopt "correct, legal, and legitimate behaviors" and to respect the diversity of opinions to ensure that the 50th anniversary of April 25th can be celebrated peacefully and civilly.

“So that all citizens can freely and responsibly exercise their right to assembly and protest, regardless of their background, sex, race, language, origin, religion, political beliefs, education, economic status, social condition, or sexual orientation.”