Francisco Pinto Balsemão, 88, Dies; Portuguese Prime Minister and Press Champion

Francisco Pinto Balsemão, who served as Portugal's prime minister and was a prominent media figure, died on Tuesday at 88 in Cascais, Portugal. Announced by President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, Balsemão played a significant role in guiding Portugal’s transition to democracy after the Carnation Revolution of 1974. He founded Expresso newspaper in 1973 and later became head of Impresa, Portugal's largest private media group. As prime minister from January 1981 until summer 1983, Balsemão attempted to reconcile political factions but faced limited success. Known for his advocacy of press freedom and his wealth as a descendant of Portuguese royalty, he was recognized as one of the country’s most notable figures over the past six decades.

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