On December 6, 2024, the extraordinary meeting of the Lisbon City Hall was abruptly disrupted when members of the Socialist Party (PS), Bloco de Esquerda (BE), and Cidadãos Por Lisboa (CPL) walked out in protest. Their departure was a direct response to the absence of the mayor, Carlos Moedas, and the majority of the leadership from the Social Democratic Party (PSD) and CDS-PP coalition.
The meeting, held at the Paços do Concelho, was intended to address important proposals, including financial support for sports entities and amendments to the 2024 budget. However, the absence of the mayor and several key officials led to a significant disruption. Only the representatives from the ruling coalition and the Communist Party (PCP) remained in attendance.
The session ultimately proceeded with discussions and approvals of various proposals, despite the walkout. The current Lisbon City Hall executive consists of 17 members, with a coalition of seven from the “New Times” (PSD/CDS-PP/MPT/PPM/Aliança) holding the majority of responsibilities, while the opposition includes three from PS, two from PCP, three from CPL, one from Livre, and one from BE.
This incident highlights the ongoing political tensions within the Lisbon City Hall and raises questions about the effectiveness of governance in the city, particularly in light of the recent walkout by opposition parties. As the political landscape continues to evolve, the implications of such actions will likely resonate in future meetings and decisions.
