Recent updates on the case of Spinumviva...
In an exclusive interview with TVI and CNN Portugal, Henrique Gouveia e Melo, the Naval retiree turned presidential contender, delved into the tricky subject of what actions he'd take if Luís Montenegro, his political adversary, were designated as an arguido in the Spinumviva case.
Kicking off the discussion with a nod to the cherished principle of presumption of innocence, Gouveia e Melo swiftly moved to the "ethical and political" landscape, stressing the need for careful political judgment on a case-by-case basis.
The former Chief of Staff of the Navy underscored the significance of reputation in executing government positions, suggesting that a reputation-shattering development could potentially even threaten the stability of the government itself. Gouveia e Melo leant towards the possibility of dissolving the Assembly of the Republic in an extreme situation, allowing the people to regain their voice.
However, the retired admiral acknowledged the nation's decision to reaffirm Luís Montenegro in his role in the recent elections, even with the knowledge of the Spinumviva case. He clarified that the Constitutiondoes not establish legislative elections as elected Governments, but rather the parliament.
The interview took a detour as Gouveia e Melo expressed his disagreement with the dissolution of parliament and the calling of legislative elections in 2023 by the current President of the Republic, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa.
In Gouveia e Melo's perspective, consensus and moderate approaches are fundamental to good governance. Speaking about his interpretation of constitutional powers, he clarified that the passage or not of the State Budget does not necessitate a government's fall, nor the dissolution of the Assembly of the Republic, and the calling of new elections.
When probed about the support from Chega and its leader André Ventura, Gouveia e Melo asserted his rejection of any backing from organized political parties or groups. Showing signs of distance from André Ventura, he reassured the public that a government led by him would function like any other on the political spectrum, provided the people elect him and he possesses the necessary resources for governance.
Yet, when questioned about whether he'd entrust power to a Chega-led minority government, Gouveia e Melo played coy, labeling it a "large-scale 'if'". On the subject of his first act as Head of State, the ex-admiral declared his intention to lessen his verbal communication, voicing himself only on essential matters.
Addressing criticism from his Lisbon rival, Luís Marques Mendes, who has deemed Gouveia e Melo a threat to democracy, the navy veteran responded with a chuckle, arguing that some attacks are hard to take seriously.
Stay tuned for further updates on the fascinating race for Portugal's highest office.
[Sourced from the original article.]
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[1] Enrichment Data: Gouveia e Melo has not openly stated if he'd back a Chega-led minority government should he become the President. His political space has been characterized by a focus on consensus and moderation, potentially distancing him from the radical policies advocated by Chega. His stance on specific scenarios would require direct clarification.
- In regards to the potential formation of a Chega-led minority government, Gouveia e Melo's stance remains unclear, as he has not publicly expressed support for such a scenario.
- Within the realm of government, policy-and-legislation, politics, and general-news, Gouveia e Melo emphasizes the importance of consensus and moderate approaches, potentially distancing him from radical policies advocated by certain political groups.
