The government of Portugal, led by Prime Minister Luís Montenegro, issued a statement on Saturday expressing that they have no intention of creating a specific process or program aimed at repairing the country’s former colonies. This position contradicts the statements made by President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, who has advocated for forms of compensation for former colonies. The government emphasized that they will follow the previous governments’ approach of cooperation with previously colonized states but rejected any reparations projects.
The statement also highlighted the government’s commitment to deepening mutual relations, respecting historical truth, and enhancing cooperation with brotherly peoples. President Rebelo de Sousa’s remarks suggesting that Portugal should lead the process of reparation were criticized by the right-wing Chega party, led by André Ventura. The party threatened to present a motion of censure against the Montenegro government if they proceeded with any compensation project, expressing pride in Portugal’s history and condemning the idea of reparations.
Chega stated on social media that they are proud of Portugal’s history and will not apologize for their ancestors’ actions, calling Rebelo’s statements a betrayal of the homeland and the Portuguese people. The party has denounced the President’s remarks on reparations as a disgrace throughout the week. Left-wing parties in the Portuguese Parliament are expected to introduce proposals on the topic of reparations in the coming days, sparking further discussion on the issue.