Portugal has scheduled a snap legislative election for May 18 after Prime Minister Luís Montenegro resigned amid a conflict of interest scandal. President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa aims to avert political instability, with the Socialist party currently leading in the polls. Montenegro has expressed his intentions to run again as key political dynamics unfold ahead of the election.
On Thursday, Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa announced a snap legislative election for May 18, following the resignation of Prime Minister Luís Montenegro due to a conflict of interest dispute. This election marks the third national vote in just three years, with the Socialist party currently leading in opinion polls.
President Rebelo de Sousa emphasized the urgency of this election to prevent prolonged political instability. In a televised address, he mentioned that May 18 was deemed the preferred date by the majority of political parties. The president held consultations with party leaders on Wednesday prior to dissolving parliament.
Montenegro’s resignation came after losing a confidence vote, facing scrutiny over government contracts linked to his family businesses. Furthermore, he has announced his intention to run for prime minister again in the upcoming election. This decision follows the Socialists’ majority win in January 2022, which they subsequently lost in a snap election in March 2024 amid scandals.
Current opinion polls, such as one from Diario de Noticias, show the Socialists at 30.8 percent, while Montenegro’s Democratic Alliance stands at 25.8 percent, followed by the far-right Chega party at around 17 percent. Montenegor’s political future is uncertain, as controversy surrounding his family business persisted, prompting calls for more transparency from the opposition.
Political analyst Antonio Costa Pinto suggested that President Rebelo de Sousa’s election call represents a strategic maneuver to avoid extensive inquiries into Montenegro’s alleged conflicts and provide him a chance for political survival. This situation underscores the delicate state of Portuguese politics amid pressing issues in the electorate, particularly economic and healthcare concerns.
In conclusion, President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa has set a snap legislative election for May 18 following Prime Minister Luís Montenegro’s resignation sparked by conflict of interest allegations. This election reflects ongoing political challenges in Portugal and the populace’s priorities regarding economic and social issues. The political landscape remains dynamic, with party performance indicating a potential competitive race ahead.
Original Source: www.france24.com
