Sérgio Bastos, a prominent figure in the housing protests occupying Praça D. João I for 25 consecutive nights, directly addressed Prime Minister Luís Montenegro's recent remarks accusing demonstrators of importing violent protest models. Speaking during the Popular Assembly on Tuesday afternoon, Bastos stated that the only thing imported into Portugal was police violence techniques. He responded to the Prime Minister's call for non-violence with irony, proposing that the solution to prevent violence is simply for authorities to stop beating protesters.
Bastos characterized the current situation not as violence by the demonstrators, but as political and police repression against a genuine, peaceful Portuguese movement. While acknowledging that the Acampada replicates visibility tactics from protests in other countries, particularly Spain, he insisted that neither the organization nor its members have engaged in violent attitudes. He noted that while some less peaceful situations must be managed, the core of the protest remains non-violent. The spokesperson criticized Montenegro for demonizing protesters instead of listening to their arguments, accusing the government of presenting ineffective measures and ignoring the majority in favor of a powerful minority.
Despite the sharp criticism, Bastos acknowledged a partial victory as the Prime Minister expressed willingness to hold a meeting between the government and opposition parties. However, he clarified that neither the Socialist Party (PS) nor Chega currently offers proposals that sufficiently meet the movement's demands regarding housing. The spokesperson emphasized that while elected representatives must debate ideas, the Acampada will continue to present its own claims and expects to be heard in due time. He argued that the government's claim of consulting the population is misleading, suggesting instead that they have only listened to real estate funds.
The assembly also addressed internal organizational matters, including a discussion on creating a committee to represent the movement in future meetings with local authorities or the Presidency of the Republic. While some members noted existing representatives, the majority voted to support the creation of a specific representation committee for each meeting, a topic that will be further discussed in future assemblies. Additionally, the assembly leadership apologized for failing to organize an Iberian general strike scheduled for November 11, citing a lack of conditions to meet the required ten-day advance notice period.
The evening at the square saw increased activity after the assembly concluded with a screening of the documentary "Acima das nossas possibilidades," which depicts the impact of austerity measures. The atmosphere was briefly interrupted by fans of the Italian football club Napoli passing through the area ahead of their Champions League match, accompanied by visible police presence. Security recommendations were issued to attendees, urging them to make noise and film if they witnessed anything suspicious.
Sources: Observador.