The candidate also had the backing of former president Cavaco Silva, who, in a video, emphasised Marques Mendes's preparedness and said he would be 'independent' and 'demanding' of the Government.

The candidate also had the backing of former president Cavaco Silva, who, in a video, emphasised Marques Mendes's preparedness and said he would be 'independent' and 'demanding' of the Government.