Montenegro warns against importing “violent protest models”

O prime minister said today that it does not devalue the demonstrations and “listen to the content” of the concerns of those protesting on the streets for the cost of housing, but insisted that there is no reason to “import violent protest models”.

In a declaration to the country from the official residence in São Bento (Lisbon), Luís Montenegro argued that it was necessary to reconcile the right of manifestation with others, such as those of free movement, quietness, order, security or health.

“ We are a peaceful country where everyone can see respect for their rights (...) I said and I repeat: there is no reason in Portugal to care about models of violent protests and everything must be done to avoid any undesirable confrontation,” he said.

The declaration to the country takes place after weeks of demonstrations and so-called camped in Lisbon and Porto, which protest against the cost of housing, and which have already originated several police loads.