Surprising Admission from José Manuel Anes: Is Gouveia e Melo's Presidential Movement in Trouble?

Admission of Premature Announcement

José Manuel Anes, a former Masonic leader and a key figure behind the Movement of Support for Admiral Gouveia e Melo's Presidency (MAAP), has acknowledged a sense of "precipitation" in announcing the formation of the movement. In an interview with Rádio Observador, Anes revealed that Admiral Gouveia e Melo was "annoyed" by the announcement because he prefers to maintain his own pace and dislikes being pressured.

The Purpose of MAAP

Anes clarified that the MAAP is merely a nucleus for organizing the future campaign structure, intending to establish an association in mid-January. This initiative aims to reassure the admirers of Gouveia e Melo, who are eagerly awaiting his presidential candidacy announcement. "This attitude was meant to signal to his supporters that things are moving along," Anes explained, noting a growing "anguish" among some supporters due to the wait.

Gouveia e Melo's Perspective

While Anes cannot assure a future candidacy from Gouveia e Melo, he emphasized that the admiral's decision is "forthcoming". Upon learning about the movement's formation, Gouveia e Melo seemed "a bit annoyed", as he prefers to keep a steady rhythm without external pressure. Anes reassured that the admiral understands this is merely a grassroots movement with no real pressure involved.

Inclusivity of the Movement

The MAAP reportedly includes individuals beyond the Masonic community, with around 50 people already involved, including various political figures from both the center-right and center-left. Anes refuted criticisms directed at Gouveia e Melo regarding his silence on critical issues affecting Portugal and the international scene, stating that several recent publications have presented Gouveia e Melo's views.

Gouveia e Melo's Stance on Political Parties

Anes reiterated that Gouveia e Melo is not opposed to political parties but believes there is a "deficit in the image" of these parties and their leaders. He emphasized that the admiral is open to political discourse but is critical of the current political landscape.