Portugal’s ruling Democratic Alliance (AD) won Sunday’s election but did not secure a parliamentary majority. The party received 32.7% of the vote, compared to 23.4% for the Socialist Party and 22.6% for the far-right Chega. This ongoing minority government reflects ongoing political instability, exacerbated by issues in housing and immigration. AD leader Luis Montenegro has ruled out a coalition with Chega, indicating difficulties ahead in forming a stable government.
In a closely watched election held on Sunday, Portugal’s ruling Democratic Alliance (AD) emerged with the most seats, yet fell short of securing a parliamentary majority once again. Official results, nearly complete, reveal the AD garnered 32.7% of the vote—far below the 42% threshold necessary for an outright majority. The Socialist Party, the main opposition, secured a 23.4% share, while the far-right Chega party made significant strides with 22.6% of the votes.
This recent election marks a continuation of political turbulence in Portugal, as the AD’s previous minority government collapsed earlier this year. Economic challenges and political instability have been at the forefront of voter concerns. Luis Montenegro, the AD leader and acting prime minister, has publicly rejected any plans to form a coalition with Chega. Moving forward, AD will likely need to negotiate with smaller parties to achieve a workable majority in the 230-seat parliament.
Analysts have noted that this marks the third election in just three years for the nation, with voters increasingly frustrated. The urgency for this election was heightened after Montenegro’s government failed a vote of confidence just a year into its term. This vote was seen as a response to various controversies surrounding the integrity of Montenegro himself, particularly regarding the actions of his family’s consultancy firm, which he has denied any wrongdoing. Most polls reflected public dismissal of these critiques.
Chega, the far-right party, has outperformed expectations, capturing more votes than polls had indicated prior to the election. Their leader, Andre Ventura, faced health issues recently, including two hospital visits for an esophageal spasm; however, he made a notable appearance at his party’s final campaign event. Chega’s rise in parliament reflects growing support, as they have effectively tapped into rising discontent surrounding immigration policies.
The housing crisis has further fueled discontent, with soaring home prices and rents. Over the last decade, house prices in Portugal have skyrocketed, and the National Statistics Institute reported a staggering 9% increase last year alone. Concurrently, the rental market in Lisbon has seen its steepest increase in 30 years, adversely impacting many residents.
The immigration landscape has changed dramatically; the legal immigrant population rose from fewer than 500,000 in 2018 to over 1.5 million this year. Many immigrants hail from Brazil and other Asian countries, filling jobs in sectors like tourism and agriculture. To address undocumented residents, the government announced plans to expel some 18,000 undocumented individuals prior to the elections. All of this has created a cocktail of discontent, making effective governance more crucial than ever.
Amidst the political chaos, observers note that for the AD to stabilize the government, effective negotiation and compromise with other parties will be necessary. The hope remains that this election may not only signal a shift in power but also a path toward addressing the pressing issues faced by citizens amid uncertain times.
In summary, the recent general election in Portugal highlighted the ruling AD’s continued struggle for a parliamentary majority, as it fell short despite winning the most votes. The rise of the far-right Chega party underscores shifting voter sentiments amid rising political tensions and significant socio-economic challenges like immigration and housing crises. With the future of governance uncertain, it is crucial for the AD to explore coalition possibilities with smaller parties to secure stability in their leadership.
Original Source: www.dw.com
