Former PSD leader Anibal Cavaco Silva has demanded “changes” in Portugal, without which “it will be impossible to improve the lives” of the Portuguese. The former president of the republic unexpectedly appeared on the 41st. Social Democratic Congress, which will take place this Saturday in Almada.
“I am convinced that Portugal needs a change that will bring new hope to the Portuguese. Without these changes, it will be impossible to improve the living conditions of the population,” he said.
Cavaco Silva made a surprise appearance around 8 pm at the congress, hosted by party chairman Luis Montenegro and PSD general secretary Hugo Soares. If he did not make any statements upon entering, then when leaving, after the speech of the PSD President, he reminded journalists that he had already predicted the end of the government of António Costa.
“About six months ago, I foresaw the situation in the country. I even talked about the possibility of the prime minister resigning and calling early elections.”
The former prime minister also stressed that Portugal needs changes in government to prevent young people from leaving abroad. Cavaco Silva refused to make “biased comments” and admitted that he was in Almada to “listen.”
“I came to listen, not to teach. I don’t want to interfere. I’m not waiting for the election results; the Portuguese, with their wisdom, will make their choice,” he said.
Arriving unexpectedly at the convention
Cavaco Silva’s presence at the PSD congress was announced by commission president Miguel Albuquerque around 7:50 p.m. Upon his arrival at the Almada Municipal Sports Complex, the 84-year-old politician was greeted with loud applause and chants of “Portugal/Portugal” and “PSD/SDP.”
“Congress warmly welcomes former President and great 20th century statesman Cavaco Silva, who greatly honors us with his presence. His political activities are always a source of inspiration for the present and the future,” said Miguel Albuquerque.
Smiling, Cavaco Silva sat in the front row next to former Social Democratic minister Manuela Ferreira Leite as he watched Luis Montenegro’s closing speech at the congress.