The President of the Republic, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, expressed his condolences to the deputies Mariana and Joana Mortágua on the death of their father, the anti-fascist Camilo Mortágua, at the age of 90, remembering him as a “Fighter against the dictatorship” .
In a note published on the official website of the Presidency of the Republic, the Head of State expresses his condolences “to the deputies Mariana and Joana Mortágua and other members of the family, friends and admirers of Camilo Mortágua”.
In the text, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa remembers Camilo Mortágua as “A fighter against the dictatorship for many years of the last century” who died today “after a long and varied life in the service of the ideals he embraced.”
Camilo Mortágua, resident and anti-fascist
Camilo Mortágua was born in Oliveira de Azeméis and immigrated to Venezuela in 1951, when he was 17 years old. It was from that country that he started fighting against fascism in Portugal, he joined the Revolutionary Directorate of the Liberation of Iberia and took part in the attack on the ship Santa Maria, in 1961, under the command of captain Henrique Galvão.
That same year, together with the revolutionary Palma Inácio and other anti-fascists, he seized a TAP plane on the way between Casablanca (Morocco) and Lisbon to drop 100,000 leaflets against the Salazar regime over the Portuguese capital.
As early as 1967, he was involved in a robbery at the Banco de Portugal branch in Figueira da Foz to finance anti-fascist activity. That same year, he founded the League of Unity and Revolutionary Actions (LUAR).
After the revolution of April 25, 1974, Camilo Mortágua promoted the occupation of Herdade da Torre Bela, in Ribatejo, which led to the creation of the Torre Bela cooperative.
He then focused his attention on rural and local development from the village of Alvito, in Alentejo, where he settled in the 80s of the 20th century and where Mariana and Joana Mortágua are from.
In 1991 he founded the Terras Dentro Association, in Alcáçovas, and was president of the Association for European Rural Universities (APURE).
Camilo Mortágua published his memoirs in two volumes, entitled “Andanças para a Liberdade”, in which he covers his life from his childhood in Beira Litoral until April 25.
w/ Lusa
Time.news Interview with Dr. Ana Silva, Political Historian
Editor: Good day, Dr. Silva. Thank you for joining us today to discuss the legacy of Camilo Mortágua, a remarkable figure in Portugal’s political history. His recent passing at the age of 90 has sparked widespread reflection on his contributions. Can you start by giving us an overview of Mortágua’s role in the anti-fascist movement?
Dr. Silva: Absolutely, it’s a pleasure to be here. Camilo Mortágua was indeed a significant figure in the fight against Portugal’s dictatorship, especially during the Estado Novo regime, which lasted from 1933 until 1974. He was not only a political activist but also embodied the spirit of resistance against oppression, advocating for democracy and social justice throughout his life.
Editor: Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, the President of Portugal, referred to him as a “fighter against the dictatorship”. In what specific ways did Mortágua contribute to this struggle?
Dr. Silva: Mortágua was deeply involved in various movements that opposed the regime’s authoritarian practices. He was active in the student movement and later in the political scene, particularly with the Portuguese Communist Party. His relentless activism helped bring attention to the suffering inflicted by the dictatorship and mobilized many others to join the cause.
Editor: It’s clear that his work resonates throughout Portuguese history. His daughters, Mariana and Joana Mortágua, are currently active politicians as deputies. How do you think his legacy influences their political careers?
Dr. Silva: That’s an intriguing aspect of his legacy. Mariana and Joana have both followed in their father’s footsteps, albeit in a contemporary context. They advocate for progressive policies and social equality, which are themes that echo their father’s ideals. Their roles in Portuguese politics serve not only as a continuation of his work but also as a reminder of the values he fought for—such as democracy, human rights, and social justice.
Editor: You mentioned the ideals he embraced. In the context of today’s political climate in Portugal, how relevant do you think Mortágua’s ideals are?
Dr. Silva: Mortágua’s ideals are incredibly relevant today. Portugal, like many democracies, faces challenges including social inequality, corruption, and the need for systemic reforms. The principles that Mortágua stood for—the fight against injustice and the push for a fair society—continue to inspire many activists and politicians in Portugal. His life’s work asks us to reflect on the importance of fighting for these values and to remember the cost of inaction.
Editor: As we look back on Mortágua’s life, what lessons can be drawn from his commitment to anti-fascism that are applicable to current global issues of authoritarianism and democracy?
Dr. Silva: One of the most important lessons we can learn from Mortágua’s life is the necessity of vigilance in defending democracy. Authoritarianism can arise in various forms, often creeping in through seemingly minor curtailments of freedoms. Mortágua’s commitment exemplifies the idea that all citizens have a role in safeguarding their democratic values. It reminds us that activism, education, and community involvement are vital in countering any threats to democracy.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Silva, for your insights into Camilo Mortágua’s legacy and its significance today. His impact is undoubtedly profound, not just in Portugal, but as a symbol of resilience against dictatorship worldwide.
Dr. Silva: Thank you for having me. It’s crucial to continue the conversation about such figures; they remind us of the ongoing struggle for freedom and justice.
