João Cotrim de Figueiredo reveals his intentions to run for the position of President of the Republic
Portugal's political landscape is heating up as the 2026 presidential election approaches. The race is shaping up to be more competitive than usual, with candidates spanning from left to right and key themes including citizen participation, national unity, progressive change, and conservative leadership.
One of the new contenders in the race is João Cotrim de Figueiredo, a former leader and MEP of the Initiative Liberal (IL) party. In an interview, he expressed a desire for a more inclusive candidacy, envisioning a Portugal that is more advanced, less gray, less stuffy, more airy, and much more modern. He wants his candidacy to be inclusive and extend to all who can imagine a different Portugal.
Cotrim de Figueiredo has shown availability to face all battles that can strengthen the Initiative Liberal party. He has received hundreds of messages from people across various parties encouraging him to move forward. He emphasized the importance of occupying the position for which one was chosen by the people.
The Initiative Liberal party initially announced Mariana Leitão as their candidate for the presidential elections. However, she ended up withdrawing from the presidential race to focus on the race for the party leadership. Cotrim de Figueiredo's presidential candidacy could be a response to this withdrawal. He has also expressed openness to accepting support from the Initiative Liberal party.
Another notable contender is António José Seguro, a former Socialist Party (PS) leader. He announced his candidacy in June 2025, positioning himself as a progressive alternative focused on change, hope, and national unity. Seguro has launched a movement called UPortugal aimed at increasing citizen participation and combating misinformation. He has received endorsements from many PS establishment figures but awaits the party's official backing, which will come after local elections.
Other contenders include Henrique Gouveia e Melo, a former chief of the Navy and conservative candidate; Luís Marques Mendes, a former PSD leader with a conservative profile; André Ventura, leader of the opposition party Chega; António Sampaio da Nóvoa, Socialist and former 2016 presidential runner-up; and António Filipe, Communist Party candidate, among others.
Meanwhile, the President of the Republic, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, has been actively involved in addressing the fires affecting the mainland territory, mobilizing hundreds of operatives and resources to tackle the crisis.
The political landscape in Portugal is indeed changing, and the 2026 presidential race promises to be an exciting and significant event. Parties such as Livre on the left are still deliberating on candidates and strategies, aiming for unity to enhance chances in a potential second round. The race is open, and only time will tell who will emerge as the next President of Portugal.
[1] Source: Portuguese newspaper Diário de Notícias [3] Source: Portuguese news agency Lusa [5] Source: Portuguese news outlet Público
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