Portugal Sets Snap Elections for May 18 Following Political Turmoil

Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa announced the dissolution of parliament and called for snap elections on May 18, following a no-confidence vote against Prime Minister Luís Montenegro, who is accused of conflict of interest. This election will be the third since 2023 and will witness Montenegro opposing Socialist Party leader Pedro Nuno Santos.

On March 19, Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa will dissolve the parliament and call for snap national elections scheduled for May 18. This decision follows a recent no-confidence vote against Prime Minister Luís Montenegro. Opposition parties allege that Montenegro has violated conflict of interest regulations due to his ties with Spinumviva, a data protection firm affiliated with his family.

This upcoming election marks the third legislative vote in Portugal since 2023, occurring just 14 months after the previous election. Despite the quick succession of votes, the political situation in Portugal remains largely unaltered. Prime Minister Montenegro will again represent the center-right Democratic Alliance, competing against Pedro Nuno Santos, the leader of the Socialist Party.

In summary, the Portuguese political arena is set for a rapid transition as President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa announces the dissolution of parliament and snap elections on May 18. Following a no-confidence vote against Prime Minister Luís Montenegro, the elections present a unique opportunity to reassess the political leadership within Portugal, particularly as Montenegro faces a significant challenge from the opposition.

Original Source: www.politico.eu