PRINCE OF THE REPUBLIC - By Jose Maria Neves
I have always had great respect and admiration for President António Mascarenhas Monteiro, the first directly elected by the people, in times of democracy. If he were alive, he would be 80 years old today.
An eminent jurist, with careful education and fine manners, he knew how to play the role of arbiter and moderator of the political system with distinction, at a crucial moment in the life of the Republic.
He defended the Constitution and democratic institutions, guaranteed the unity of the State and territorial integrity and gallantly performed the functions of Cape Verde's highest internal and external representative, having gained enormous prestige in the international arena.
Whenever I needed advice and some comfort, I turned to him. We became great friends. He had a great and fraternal friendship for Santa Catarina, our common land.
On the 22nd, as President of the Republic, I will honor him in recognition of the relevant services provided to the Nation, at decisive moments in our contemporary political history.
