Francisca Venâncio, a member of the Coro Social do Bairro, told Lusa that the gathering was “somewhat spontaneous”, taking place on a rehearsal day, and was “above all, a symbolic action” intended to “draw attention” to the housing crisis, which is not just “a problem in major urban centres”.

“Like other people, we believe it is necessary for the President of the Republic to make a statement and express an opinion, given what we are seeing happening. The housing crisis is not just a problem in major urban centres. It is a problem here too,” she said.

During the “serenade”, reported in a video published on the Jornal das Caldas Facebook page, the choir performed traditional and protest songs from its “usual repertoire”. These included Eu vi este povo a lutar (Confederação), written and performed by José Mário Branco.

Based in Caldas da Rainha, Coro Social do Bairro is led by musical director Tiago da Neta and includes “people of all ages, from students to retirees”, Francisca Venâncio said.

The action took place without incident. According to the same source, the police officer stationed outside the residence said he “really enjoyed it”.

In recent days, public calls have increased, including from within the Socialist camp, for the President of the Republic to comment on demonstrations in support of the right to housing and on police charges against protesters in Lisbon and Porto.

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