The heir to the Royal House considers that a reflection should be made on the political model that best corresponds to national identity, without going back to the past but as a possibility for renewal.
The Duke of Bragança, Duarte Pio, argues that, on the eve of it is time to revisit, “with serenity and a historical spirit, the monarchical solution as a factor of stability, continuity and unity”.
In the speech he will give this Sunday at the traditional Conjurados dinner in Estoril (Cascais municipality), on the occasion of Portugal’s Independence Restoration Day, and sent to the Lusa agency, Duarte Pio refers, among other topics, to the presidential elections scheduled for January 18th.
“It is in these periods of transition that it becomes legitimate to reflect on the political model that best corresponds to the national identity and aspirations of the people. Perhaps this is the time to revisit, with serenity and a historical spirit, the monarchical solution as a factor of stability, continuity and unity”, he argues.
The heir to the Portuguese Royal House considers that this should be done “not as a retreat to the past, but as a possibility for renewal, anchored in a tradition that has always sought to place the nation above partisan disputes”.
“The important thing, above all, is that Portugal finds the path that most deeply reflects its soul and its history”, he adds, without commenting on any candidate.
The republican form of Government is one of the material limits of constitutional review, that is, it cannot be subject to changes. In practice, these limits can only be changed through the so-called “double review”: in a first constitutional review, the material limit is eliminated from the Constitution in order to, in a second phase, make the change that was previously prohibited by the rule in question.
In addition to referring to the importance of December 1st, as a symbol of the country’s determination “to preserve its identity and sovereignty as a free people”, Duarte Pio also refers to the so-called law on foreigners, already in force, saying that “it must reflect the balance between the tradition of Portuguese hospitality and the protection of the sovereign interests of the State”.
“Portugal has always welcomed different peoples and cultures, but historical experience teaches that openness must be accompanied by prudence, responsibility and respect for national norms […]. Guided by the Christian spirit, we must ensure that everyone, national and foreign, contributes to the common good, respecting the culture and values of Portugal”, he says.
The Duke of Bragança recalls a recent visit to Bangladesh, saying that it had “a special meaning at a time when many Bangladeshi migrants in Portugal face episodes of discrimination”.
“By traveling to Bangladesh, I reaffirm not only the appreciation of the diaspora that chose Portugal as their destination, but also our moral commitment to human dignity, regardless of origin. It is a clear sign that those who live and work among us are part of our community and deserve recognition, protection and respect”, he highlights.
Duarte Pio also calls for the strengthening of relations between Portuguese-speaking countries and communities, through, for example, a commitment to teaching the Portuguese language.
“May this 1st of December remind us that Portugal is not just its history or its territory, but also the community of souls who, in every corner of the world, continue to speak, teach and live the language that unites us”, he says.
