Liberal Party Accuses PSD of Capitulating to PS, Putting Country’s Interests Last

The leader of Portugal’s Iniciativa Liberal (IL) has accused the Social Democratic Party (PSD) of surrendering to the Socialist Party (PS) in the 2025 budget negotiations. Rui Rocha, the IL president, claims that the PSD is taking a path that prioritizes short-term political gains over the country’s long-term interests, risking a continuation of the status quo. He warns that the PSD’s approach will lead to more of the same economic stagnation and political clientelism that has plagued Portugal under the previous socialist government. Rocha emphasizes the need for structural change and economic growth, arguing that the IL is the only party truly committed to these goals. He criticizes Prime Minister Luís Montenegro for lacking the ambition and drive necessary to address Portugal’s challenges. Rocha cites recent incidents, such as the assault on the Ministry of Internal Administration, as evidence of the government’s failure to ensure basic security and public order.