MpD says it is confident of Francisco Tavares' innocence

The position was expressed at a press conference by Euclides Silva, a member of the party's National Political Commission.

According to the MpD spokesperson, respect for justice, even when one disagrees with a decision, is an essential foundation of the democratic regime and a guarantee of social peace.

When there is disagreement, he added, the way forward is always to respect the decision and appeal to the competent higher authorities for a review, using the legal and peaceful means placed at the service of all citizens.

"The MpD underlines and appreciates the calm, peaceful and respectful stance taken by former mayor Francisco Tavares in the face of the authorities' actions. His behavior is an example of respect for the decisions of the judicial authorities," he said.

The leader made it clear that the MpD maintains full confidence in Francisco Tavares' innocence, stressing that the principle of the presumption of innocence applies to everyone until there is a definitive judicial decision.

"We believe in justice and in the institutions, and our comrade has all the legal instruments and mechanisms to prove his innocence under the terms of the law," he said.

In contrast, he said that in other cases involving political office-holders, the country has seen confrontational attitudes towards justice, which, in his opinion, affect confidence in institutions.

"It's up to the courts to say what is legal or illegal. Only the courts ultimately determine what is legal or illegal. In our system, the law is declared by the courts. No one can be a judge in their own cause, nor can they absolve themselves of any infractions they may have committed," he said.

As for the messages of solidarity directed at Francisco Tavares, the party acknowledged that there have been expressions of support from militants and supporters, but called for them to take place in an orderly, peaceful environment and with respect for the institutions.

"The party appeals, however, for such expressions of solidarity - to which the MpD leadership subscribes, trusting in his innocence and integrity until proven otherwise - to always take place in an orderly, peaceful environment and with respect for the institutions," he asked.

On public comments that insinuate political motivations in the work of the judiciary, Euclides Silva considered it a lack of respect for the work of magistrates and reiterated that they are qualified and independent professionals.

"That's why the MpD distances itself from any attitude of anyone who raises suspicions about the work of magistrates, because this even calls into question the professional brilliance of magistrates," he said.

In this sense, he stressed that being the leader of the opposition or of the situation does not give anyone immunity from committing illegal acts, reiterating that all citizens are equal before the law, regardless of the position they hold.