Portugal Announces Snap Legislative Election Amid Political Turmoil

Portugal is set to hold a snap legislative election on May 18 following Prime Minister Luís Montenegro’s resignation due to conflict of interest allegations. This election will be the third in three years, with the Socialist party currently leading in polls. Political experts suggest the election call aims to mitigate instability while allowing Montenegro to survive politically.

On Thursday, Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa announced a snap legislative election for May 18. This follows the resignation of Prime Minister Luís Montenegro, who stepped down amid conflict of interest allegations. This election marks Portugal’s third national election in just three years, with the Socialist party currently leading in opinion polls.

President Rebelo de Sousa emphasized the urgency of the election in a televised address aimed at avoiding prolonged political instability. He stated that May 18 was the preferred date for the majority of parties, following discussions with party leaders and consultations with the State Council. He called for a focus on pressing issues such as the economy and healthcare, which are of concern to the Portuguese populace.

Prime Minister Montenegro resigned after his minority center-right government lost a confidence vote and faced scrutiny over contracts held by his family’s companies. Previously, the Socialist party had won a legislative majority in January 2022 but lost it in a subsequent snap election in March 2024. The party leader, Antonio Costa, stepped down amidst investigations but maintains his position within the European Council, denying any wrongdoing.

Current polling indicates that the Socialists lead with 30.8 percent, while Montenegro’s Democratic Alliance follows at 25.8 percent, and the far-right Chega party at approximately 17 percent. Montenegro has announced his intention to run for prime minister again in the upcoming election.

Political analyst Antonio Costa Pinto described the president’s decision to call for elections as a tactical retreat, suggesting it aims to sidestep a formal inquiry into Montenegro’s alleged conflicts of interest and to allow him to remain politically viable. The controversy surrounding Montenegro involves a service company linked to his family.

The recent announcement of a snap legislative election in Portugal reflects significant political turmoil following Prime Minister Luís Montenegro’s resignation over conflict of interest issues. As the country prepares for its third national election in three years, the Socialist party currently holds a slight lead in opinion polls. The political landscape remains volatile, and the call for elections is seen as a strategic move to avoid further instability while addressing pressing national concerns.

Original Source: www.france24.com