Portugal’s President announces a snap election for May 18 after PM Luis Montenegro resigns due to a confidence vote loss. This marks the third national election in three years amidst ongoing political challenges. The president urges parties to focus their campaigns on critical issues such as healthcare and the economy.
On Thursday, Portugal’s President, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, declared a snap legislative election for May 18, following Prime Minister Luis Montenegro’s resignation due to a conflict of interest controversy. This development marks the nation’s third national election within three years, a situation President Rebelo de Sousa aims to resolve quickly to prevent further instability.
In a televised address, Rebelo de Sousa emphasized that May 18 was selected as it was the preferred date for most political parties involved. The president had engaged in discussions with party leaders the previous day, and convened the State Council for consultations before deciding to dissolve the parliament.
Addressing the unexpected elections, Rebelo de Sousa urged parties to direct their campaign discussions towards pressing concerns faced by Portuguese citizens, such as economic issues and healthcare, particularly during a period marked by international conflicts.
Luis Montenegro resigned following the loss of a confidence vote on Tuesday, which brought down his minority centre-right government. His administration faced scrutiny mainly due to government contracts involving his family businesses. In prior elections, the Socialist Party had achieved a legislative majority in January 2022, but lost its standing in a subsequent snap election in March 2024 amid various scandals.
Portugal is preparing for a snap election on May 18 after Prime Minister Luis Montenegro’s resignation, prompted by a confidence vote loss. President Rebelo de Sousa aims to ensure stability and encourages political parties to address the public’s pressing concerns during their campaigns. This election follows a series of swift political changes, reflecting ongoing challenges within the country’s leadership.
Original Source: www.scmp.com
