Drone rains notes on Porto to launch campaign

Aníbal Pinto, a lawyer and sports commentator known for his outspoken views, has officially entered the race for Porto City Council in one of the most eye-catching ways possible. At the end of a speech in front of Porto City Hall on Saturday, Pinto’s campaign used a drone to drop real five euro notes over a crowd of around 50 supporters.

The event stunned passersby and quickly made headlines across Portugal. Some applauded the gesture as bold and original, while others questioned the ethics behind raining cash during a political campaign.

Hovering above the crowd, the drone dropped dozens of five euro notes, fluttering down like confetti. Pinto described the moment as a “gesture of happiness,” insisting the money was real and that the stunt would be repeated throughout his campaign.

“We’re always going to throw notes,” Pinto said. “We’re always going to make it rain money.”

He confirmed that part of his campaign budget is reserved for actions like this rather than being spent on formal events or hotel venues. The aim, he explained, is to “give something directly to the people of Porto.”

Pinto is running under the New Right party (Nova Direita), a small but growing political force led by Ossanda Líber. The party promotes ideas such as economic liberalism, privatisation, and a stronger role for private enterprise in public life.

The drone drop has sparked nationwide debate, with reactions ranging from praise to scepticism. Critics called it a publicity stunt. Supporters see it as a fresh, unconventional approach in a political world often criticised for being disconnected from the public.

Líber defended the campaign strategy, arguing it was no different from traditional political promises.

“What’s the difference between throwing money and putting up a billboard that promises to reduce VAT?” she asked. “That’s money too.”

While the exact amount of money dropped has not been revealed, Pinto said it was enough to “rent half a dozen rooms in a five-star hotel.” The money reportedly came from private campaign funds and not public money.

A bold campaign with big promises

Beyond the cash drop, Pinto’s political programme includes a series of controversial proposals. He is calling for the sale of all social housing owned by the city. Under his plan, current residents would be able to buy their homes for as little as 20,000 or 30,000 euros, with the city council acting as a guarantor for their bank loans.

According to Pinto, this would reduce the financial burden on the municipality and give residents the chance to own their homes. He believes this would generate around 300 million euros, which could then be reinvested into building new housing across Porto.

He also proposes raising the tourist tax to five euros per night. Pinto claims this could bring in up to 50 million euros annually, which he says would be used to improve services and infrastructure in the city.

Another part of his platform includes new ideas on security. He suggests giving bonuses to police officers working in problem areas, such as busy shopping districts or nightlife zones. Local businesses would pay the bonuses, which would, in turn, receive benefits from the council, such as reduced licensing fees.

In terms of mobility, Pinto wants to introduce an urban toll for non-residents entering the city. This toll, he says, would not apply to workers, students, or those visiting family. The goal is to reduce traffic and encourage greater use of public transport, which he believes should be free for all Porto residents.

A campaign shaking up Porto politics

Aníbal Pinto’s candidacy is one of several confirmed ahead of the local elections, which are scheduled to take place between September 22 and October 12. Other candidates include Manuel Pizarro for the Socialist Party (PS), Pedro Duarte for the Social Democrats (PSD), and Diana Ferreira for the CDU. There are also candidates from smaller movements and independents, such as Vitorino Silva, Sérgio Aires, and current vice-mayor Filipe Araújo.

Pinto’s approach is already standing out. While other candidates are holding speeches in formal venues, launching traditional advertising campaigns, and releasing policy papers, Pinto is doing things differently.

His strategy of using direct action—literally putting money in people’s hands—is catching the attention of voters, the media, and his political opponents. Whether this bold approach will translate into votes at the ballot box remains to be seen.

Controversial but effective?

The drone stunt has raised questions about the line between generosity and vote-buying. But Pinto insists it’s not about buying votes but creating a campaign that people remember and feel part of.

He argues that politics needs a more direct connection with ordinary people. Instead of spending thousands on banquets or hotel conferences, he believes that giving back to the community, no matter how symbolic is a better use of campaign money.

For now, his message is clear: if the traditional political system cannot fix problems like housing, transport, and public safety, then it may be time to shake things up. And if that shake-up involves drones and five euro notes, so be it.

Whether you see it as a gimmick or a genius move, one thing is certain: Aníbal Pinto’s campaign has landed with a splash—and Porto is watching.