Portuguese president calls for politicians to give good example to citizens

Politicians should be an example for the Portuguese, President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa said during a ceremony to mark the implementation of the Portuguese Republic here on Wednesday.

"The example of those who exert power is essential for people to continue believing in Oct. 5," he said.

"Remembering this day is giving an example of modesty, proximity, frugality, of independence, of service to others."

He added that disappointment and mistrust on behalf of citizens was caused by a lack of principles.

Rebelo de Sousa said it was "just and pedagogic to pay tribute to the day of the implementation of the Republic and for this day to be a national public holiday."

He also called for politicians to serve the poor and disadvantaged.

The Portuguese Republic was established in 1910 following a coup d'etat by the Portuguese Republican Party which deposed the constitutional monarchy.
 [Xinhua/globaltimes.cn]
6/10/16