"I withdraw the relentless word with all ease"

Pedro Duarte, the Mayor of Porto, stated he is willing to retract the term "implacable" regarding law enforcement but insists on strict adherence to the law. He emphasized that while he sympathizes with protesters, exceptions cannot be made for legal compliance. Duarte referenced previous protests that were handled without police intervention, highlighting the importance of dialogue. He noted that the recent protests for housing rights led to police action, resulting in injuries and arrests. The Inspectorate-General of Internal Administration has opened an investigation into the police response, while protesters demand changes to housing laws and increased public housing.