António José Seguro is now (officially) the President of the Republic. In his inauguration speech, he promised to be the “President of the whole of Portugal”, expressing respect for the plurality of Parliament and assuring it of institutional cooperation. He also guaranteed that he will call on the parties to reach an agreement in key structural areas, such as housing and health, for example.
Throughout his speech, which lasted around 25 minutes, the new head of state reiterated the message that he will commit himself to promoting political understandings, through “dialogue instead of trenches”, and appealed to Portuguese people who suffer or feel outraged to “believe in Portugal”.
The new head of state wants a “commitment from the greatest possible number of parties so that democratic stability can be guaranteed”, stressing that the country benefits when they “manage to converge on what is essential”. He therefore highlighted the need for an understanding “that goes beyond government cycles”, particularly in fundamental areas such as health, housing, population rejuvenation and justice.
“I will be a President close to the people, who listens to and understands their concerns. I will always act with respect for the Constitution of the Republic. I will be attentive to inequalities and committed to social justice and human dignity. I will be demanding of institutions and political leaders, always with the aim of improving the lives of the Portuguese,” he said, making it clear that he intends to exercise the role “with balance, dialogue and loyal and fruitful cooperation with the Government.”
“I am free. My freedom guarantees my independence as President of the Republic. I will treat all parties equally. I know that my decisions will not please everyone. Sometimes supported by some, other times by others. I will always find comfort in my conscience and in my duty to the Portuguese people and to Portugal,” he added.
The former secretary-general of the Socialist Party was elected President of the Republic in the second round of the presidential elections on February 8, with more than 3.5 million votes, a record number, 66.84% of the votes cast, against André Ventura, president of Chega.
With Lusa