Montenegro and Passos Coelho Exchange Criticism on PSD's Direction

Luís Montenegro, the current president of the PSD, responded to criticisms from former Prime Minister Pedro Passos Coelho in a recent interview. Montenegro stated that he does not govern the country 'based on anyone's tantrums, obsessions, or complexes.' This remark was made without directly mentioning Passos Coelho, but was seen as a response to his comments about the need to save the right wing.

On the same occasion, Montenegro emphasized that those who wish for the PSD's failure 'should wait seated,' underscoring the idea that the party should remain independent and not rely on forces to its right. He further asserted that the PSD 'gains nothing by being chained' to parties like Chega.

Passos Coelho's interview focused on the current situation of the right wing in Portugal, with an emphasis on the possibility of an alliance with André Ventura, the leader of Chega, to ensure the sustainability of the PSD. Passos suggested that such an alliance might be necessary to strengthen the party, leading to internal debates about the future direction of the political right in Portugal.

Montenegro, for his part, highlighted that the government continues to negotiate with other political forces without allowing internal rivalries to affect what is best for the country. His position aims to ensure that the PSD remains a party of proposals, without being constrained by external pressures.

The exchanges of criticism between the two political leaders reflect a growing tension within the right wing in Portugal, with political figures debating the best way forward for the upcoming elections. In this context, Montenegro's statement underscores his intention not to submit to alliances that could compromise the PSD's identity.

The statements from both leaders have been discussed in the media and continue to generate reactions on social media and among party activists, illustrating the divisions over the strategy that the PSD should adopt for the future.