With this year focused on commemorating 50 years since the Carnation Revolution of April 25, 1974, next year should celebrate November 25, 1975 – the failed military coup by far-left activists who hoped to hijack the transition to democracy in favour of a communist State. At least, this is what Portugal’s centre right government believes. Defence minister Nuno Melo said over the weekend: “I have agreed with the prime minister that within the scope of defence and the government, we will create a commission for proper, national commemorations of the 50th anniversary of November 25,” he said. “In 2024 we will celebrate the 50th anniversary of April 25, in 2025 we must celebrate – and not forget – the 50th anniversary of November 25,” he said, describing the date as a “military movement that saved democracy in Portugal”.
