Portugal will conduct its third snap election in three years due to Prime Minister Luís Montenegro’s resignation linked to the Spinumviva scandal. After forming a minority government, Montenegro will seek re-election amidst rising tensions with the opposition. The upcoming elections could lead to political instability and potential challenges in forming a stable government.
Portugal is set to hold its third snap election in three years due to the recent political upheaval following the resignation of Prime Minister António Costa. Following his departure in November 2023 amid an influence-peddling scandal, the Democratic Alliance coalition led by Luís Montenegro won the subsequent elections and formed a minority government. Despite initial stability, concerns emerged over Montenegro’s prior ownership of the Spinumviva consultancy, raising questions about potential conflicts of interest and prompting parliamentary censure motions from opposition parties.
As uncertainty loomed regarding the Spinumviva affair, Montenegro chose to seek a parliamentary vote of confidence to dispel accusations. However, the parliament’s lack of confidence led to the automatic dissolution of his government. In response, President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa has engaged with political leaders and is expected to dissolve parliament, initiating a snap election scheduled for May 11 or May 18.
Portugal now faces an electoral marathon, with a legislative election followed by local elections and the presidential vote in January. Current surveys suggest that Montenegro’s Democratic Alliance may retain its leading position, narrowly ahead of the Socialist Party, while the far-right Chega party remains a formidable force despite a slight decline in support.
Despite the likelihood of similar voting patterns, the environment is tense; the connections between political factions that were amicable in previous years have soured due to the Spinumviva controversy. Montenegro maintains a strong interest in the upcoming election, as does Pedro Nuno Santos of the Socialist Party, who faces scrutiny for his leadership following consecutive electoral challenges. The path for establishing a stable parliamentary coalition appears constrained, with Chega potentially emerging as a crucial player in determining future governance amid increasing hostilities between political leaders.
In summary, Portugal is entering another phase of electoral uncertainty as Prime Minister Luís Montenegro faces a snap election precipitated by scandals and shifts in political dynamics. With historical voting patterns at stake and political tensions escalating, the result of this impending election may have significant implications for the country’s governance and stability going forward.
Original Source: www.politico.eu
