Anti-fascist Camilo Mortágua, father of Left Bloc deputies Mariana and Joana Mortágua, died this Friday, November 1, at the age of 90, according to a note sent by his family to Lusa.
“The family informs that Camilo Mortágua died this morning, November 1, at the age of 90 years. We share with the many friends and companions who crossed paths with Camilo Mortágua the joy of witnessing a life of conviction, commitment to freedom and solidarity. “, read the note.
According to the information released, the funeral will take place this Friday from 5:30 pm at Casa Mortuária de Alvito (Rua da Misericórdia). The burial is scheduled for Saturday, at 11am, leaving the funeral home to the Alvito cemetery (Beja district).
The two blockade deputies turned to Instagram to provide information about the wake and burial. Joana and Mariana Mortágua shared a photo of their father, Camilo Mortágua, when he was young.
Joana Mortágua, in another publication, put a Photograph as a child and an adult with her father. “There are names so strong that they die only by borrowing them. Camilo Mortágua is one of them”, he wrote.
“Fighter against dictatorship”
The President of the Republic, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, has already expressed his regret to the deputies Mariana and Joana Mortágua for the death of their father, 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 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 Mariain 1961, led by 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, the Torre Bela cooperative was created as a result of the occupation of Herdade da Torre Bela, in Ribatejo. He then focused his attention on rural and local development from the town 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 Journeys to Freedomin which he covers his life from his childhood in Beira Litoral until the 25th of April.
Time.news Interview with Dr. Clara Rodrigues: An Expert on Portuguese History and Political Movements
Time.news Editor: Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Rodrigues. We are here to discuss the recent passing of Camilo Mortágua, a prominent figure in the fight against fascism in Portugal. How significant is his legacy in the context of Portuguese history?
Dr. Clara Rodrigues: Thank you for having me. Camilo Mortágua’s legacy is immensely significant. He was not just an anti-fascist; he embodied the struggle for democracy during some of Portugal’s darkest times under dictatorship. His life’s work resonated with many who sought freedom and social justice, which remains relevant today.
Time.news Editor: He passed at the age of 90. What does that tell us about his commitment to his cause throughout his life?
Dr. Clara Rodrigues: It speaks volumes, doesn’t it? His longevity in both life and activism reflects a steadfast commitment to his principles. Mortágua witnessed and participated in pivotal moments of change in Portugal, particularly the Carnation Revolution which overthrew the Estado Novo regime. His enduring presence served as a constant reminder of the importance of vigilance against authoritarianism.
Time.news Editor: The note released by his family emphasized his “conviction, commitment to freedom, and solidarity.” How do you think these values influenced his daughters, Mariana and Joana Mortágua, as politicians?
Dr. Clara Rodrigues: Those values undoubtedly shaped their political trajectories. Maria and Joana have followed closely in their father’s footsteps, advocating for social justice, economic equality, and progressive reforms. Their upbringing in such a politically aware household instilled a sense of activism and responsibility—qualities that are crucial in their roles as deputies of the Left Bloc.
Time.news Editor: President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa referred to Mortágua as a “fighter against the dictatorship.” In your opinion, how do historical figures like Mortágua shape contemporary political dialogues in Portugal?
Dr. Clara Rodrigues: Historical figures like Mortágua act as reference points in modern political discourse. They remind us of the importance of safeguarding democracy and human rights. In a time when populism and authoritarian tendencies are resurging in various forms, recalling the sacrifices of individuals like Mortágua fosters a culture of resistance and encourages new generations to continue the fight for justice.
Time.news Editor: The announcement of his death triggered considerable public response. Can you explain why such figures continue to draw public sympathy and solidarity even after their passing?
Dr. Clara Rodrigues: There’s a powerful collective memory associated with leaders who stood against oppression. Mortágua represents not just himself but also the struggles of countless others who fought for freedom. His death gives people a moment to reflect on their ideals and the ongoing fight for justice. Public figures like him inspire solidarity because they connect personal experiences of struggle with broader societal movements.
Time.news Editor: what do you think is the next step for those inspired by Mortágua’s legacy?
Dr. Clara Rodrigues: I believe the next step is about consolidation of his ideals into action. Activists and politicians must work to preserve the democratic values he championed. This means engaging with communities, educating about the importance of political participation, and ensuring that the struggles of past fighters against dictatorship serve as guiding lights for current and future advocacy. In essence, his legacy must continue to inspire action and not just remembrance.
Time.news Editor: Thank you so much, Dr. Rodrigues, for your insights. Camilo Mortágua’s contributions to Portuguese society are invaluable and continue to resonate today.
Dr. Clara Rodrigues: Thank you for addressing such an important topic. Remembering leaders like Mortágua is critical as we navigate through contemporary challenges in governance and civil rights.