Otelo Saraiva de Carvalho

Otelo Saraiva de Carvalho, born on August 31, 1936, was a pivotal figure in Portuguese history, renowned for his role as the chief strategist of the 1974 Carnation Revolution. A military officer by profession, he became a key player in the Movement of Armed Forces (MFA), which sought to dismantle a 48-year dictatorship. His strategic acumen was instrumental in coordinating the military coup from April 24 to April 26, 1974, which garnered widespread popular support and ultimately led to significant political change in Portugal.

Following the revolution, Otelo took on a prominent role as the head of the military defense force COPCON, working alongside influential leaders such as Prime Minister Vasco Gonçalves and President Francisco da Costa Gomes. His military force championed the rights of workers against the interests of rural landowners and urban employers, marking a stark departure from the previous regime's policies. However, his tenure was cut short when he was dismissed from his position on November 25, 1975.

In 1976, Otelo ventured into politics, running in Portugal's first presidential election where he secured second place, primarily supported by the far-left. His political journey continued as he founded the Força de Unidade Popular (FUP) in 1980, which aimed to unite various political organizations. Despite facing accusations of being a political front for the Forças Populares 25 de Abril, he was acquitted of serious charges in subsequent trials, including those related to political assassinations.

Otelo's legacy was honored at his funeral in 2021, attended by thousands, including prominent political figures such as President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa and Prime Minister António Costa. The Portuguese Parliament recognized his significant contributions to the Carnation Revolution, celebrating him as a liberator of Portugal and a key architect of its democratic transition.