Luís Filipe Menezes challenges João Paulo Correia for 2029 candidacy

Luís Filipe Menezes, the Mayor of Gaia, has issued a political challenge to opposition councilor João Paulo Correia of the Socialist Party (PS). During a tense municipal meeting, Menezes stated that he would run for re-election in 2029 if Correia also enters the race. In response to the challenge, Correia indicated he would be a candidate if necessary.

The confrontation arose following questions from Correia regarding the potential renewal of a contract for Joaquim Poças Martins, a consultant for Águas de Gaia. The contract, which carries a monthly fee of 14,000 euros, is set to expire at the end of the year. Menezes noted that the contract is only two and a half months from its end and expressed uncertainty regarding the consultant's interest in continuing.

The meeting, which lasted over three hours, was marked by heated debates regarding the municipal history of Vila Nova de Gaia. The tension reached a point where Socialist councilors threatened to leave the room unless the tone of the discussions improved.