Stories from Lisbon · Portugal

Pedro Amaral Jorge, president of the Iberian Electricity Market Operator (MIBEL), stated that electricity prices will remain stable despite the ongoing fuel crisis. He noted that 80% of electricity produced in Portugal currently comes from renewable energy sources. This renewable capacity is attracting increased investment to the country. Jorge suggested this trend could soon generate a GDP value equivalent to that of the tourism sector. This stability was guaranteed by the new president during a report by Jornal de Negócios. The announcement addresses concerns regarding energy costs in the Iberian Peninsula.

Portugal is expected to experience rising temperatures on Sunday, with a maximum of 30 degrees Celsius predicted for Santarém-Embrago. Lisbon and Coimbra are forecast to reach 28 degrees, while Vila Real, Liria, and Setúbal will see 27 degrees. Viseu is expected to reach 22 degrees, Faro 25, Porto 24, and Aveiro 24 degrees.

Rui Tavares, leader of the Livre party and a historian, has denounced recent remarks made by André Ventura of the Chega party during a parliamentary speech. Tavares reported that Ventura repeated a phrase attributed to Hitler four or five times during his address. The incident occurred within the Portuguese Parliament and has drawn significant attention to the rhetoric used by the Chega leader. The incident has drawn criticism regarding the appropriateness of such rhetoric in a democratic setting. The criticism follows previous instances where Ventura reportedly referenced Salazar.

During a commemoration of freedom, the President of the Republic highlighted the dangers of corruption, stating it undermines democracy. He emphasized the need for transparency in public office, going beyond mere income declarations to include details about family members' financial status and assets. The President warned that freedom erodes gradually through seemingly reasonable laws and the hollowing out of institutions. He also noted that Rui Tavares, leader of the Livre party, pointed out a politician's repeated use of phrases attributed to Hitler, deeming it inappropriate.

During a parade in Lisbon on April 25, various political leaders from the left expressed criticism regarding a new labor package. Environmental advocates are criticizing the planting of eucalyptus trees, arguing that it harms soil and is driven by greed for quick financial gain. They believe this practice endangers future generations and promotes the spread of forest fires. José Luis Carneiro published an opinion piece in Jornal de Público on May 1st calling on Prime Minister Luís Montenegro to withdraw the proposed labor law counter-reform. The Socialist Party's National Political Commission also criticized Montenegro, claiming he is disconnected from reality. The PS party argued that the Prime Minister has already admitted the country does not require the labor registration changes mentioned earlier this week.

A new film titled 'Projeto Global' is set to be released, focusing on the history of the FP-25, a terrorist group. The film's director, Suif, will discuss its origins and themes. This cinematic work delves into a significant and potentially controversial aspect of Portuguese history.

Radio Renascença has released a new episode of its podcast 'Ouvir o Mundo' (Listen To The World). The series explores themes of difference and connection, with the latest episode available on the station's website.

The President of Portugal delivered a speech emphasizing the importance of active participation in democracy, particularly for young people. The proposal suggests that officials should publicly declare not only their own income but also the wealth of spouses and relatives to prevent conflicts of interest. The demand aims to move beyond simple income declarations to a more comprehensive disclosure of family assets. This follows a legal ruling involving Daniel Adrião, a former PS leadership candidate expelled in late 2025, who successfully challenged a decision by the Constitutional Court regarding his independent candidacy in Lisbon. Twenty-five young people from across Portugal met with President António José Seguro to present proposals and questions. The discussion focused on issues including institutional distrust, disinformation, and territorial inequalities within the country.

André Ventura, leader of the Chega party, is accused of repeatedly using phrases associated with Hitler during a speech. A historian and deputy reportedly used his knowledge of history to denounce the rhetoric, which is being described as a 'stab in the back'.

Benfica's defensive line showed signs of fatigue during the match, while fresh players from the opposing team were able to apply pressure. This fatigue impacted their ability to control the game and build attacks. Benfica suffered a 4-1 defeat in their recent match, a scoreline that does not fully reflect the game's dynamics. The match was marked by confusion, including the departure of Lukaibá and a confrontation with Zemburinho. The team's performance and certain situations are proving difficult to comprehend. Situations involving player Lukaibá's exit and a dispute with Zemburinho contributed to the confusion.