Portugal is poised for its third snap general election in as many years, as the Prime Minister faces a motion of confidence amidst ethical concerns regarding his family’s business dealings. The expected dissolution of parliament could lead to new elections in May, following the resignations of former leaders amid allegations of misconduct.
Portugal is facing its third snap general election in as many years due to a motion of confidence that threatens to oust the centre-right government led by Prime Minister Luís Montenegro. Montenegro, who heads the Democratic Alliance (AD), called for the vote in light of mounting allegations regarding his family’s business dealings. The vote is scheduled for Tuesday, and it is widely anticipated that both the centre-left Socialist Party (PS) and the far-right Chega Party will oppose the government, increasing the likelihood of a new election in May.
The AD holds 80 seats in the 230-seat parliament, while the PS and Chega collectively possess 128 seats. Should Montenegro be defeated in the confidence vote, President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa is expected to dissolve parliament, thereby setting the stage for elections on either May 11 or May 18. The controversy revolves around Spinumviva, a consultancy firm founded by Montenegro but latterly transferred to his wife and children, which critics assert has profited from government contracts.
Despite no active investigation against Spinumviva, there is an ongoing review by prosecutors concerning anonymous complaints related to Montenegro’s business activities. Previous to these events, Portugal’s political landscape was shaken by the resignation of former Prime Minister António Costa in November 2023, following an inquiry into potential irregularities in green investment initiatives. Costa, who governed since 2015, stepped down to preserve his integrity despite no formal accusations against him.
The March 2024 election had closely contested results, with the AD securing 80 seats while the PS followed closely with 78 seats, and Chega significantly increasing its representation from 12 to 50 seats. Current polling indicates the AD at approximately 30%, marginally ahead of the PS, with Chega in third place at 18%.
In summary, Portugal is preparing for an imminent general election triggered by a confidence vote aimed at Prime Minister Luís Montenegro’s government, amidst allegations concerning his family’s business. The dissolution of parliament appears imminent should Montenegro be unsuccessful, leading to elections possibly in May. The political scenario remains charged following the prior resignation of Prime Minister António Costa, reflecting the ongoing volatility within Portugal’s political landscape.
Original Source: www.theguardian.com
