Protests Erupt in Lisbon Against Police Violence

Thousands of protesters rallied in downtown Lisbon on Saturday, demanding justice for Odair Moniz, a Cape Verde-born resident shot by police, which ignited widespread unrest and calls for an end to police violence and racial discrimination. Organized by the rights group Vida Justa, the demonstration was strategically redirected to avoid clashes with far-right supporters of the Chega party, who held a counter-rally in support of the police. Protesters chanted slogans like 'justice for Odair' and 'Stop killing us,' reflecting widespread fear and anger over systemic police violence in multi-ethnic neighborhoods. The U.N. has previously expressed concerns about excessive use of force by Portuguese police, particularly against people of African descent. Following the shooting, which police claimed was in self-defense, the officer involved has been charged with manslaughter, prompting further calls for accountability. Community members emphasized the need for better police training and expressed sorrow over the ongoing cycle of violence against marginalized groups.