The Current Political Landscape in Portugal
Recent Developments
Portugal has recently experienced significant political upheaval. Prime Minister António Costa resigned in November 2023 following a police raid on his residence and several ministries as part of a corruption investigation. This unexpected resignation has thrown the country into a political crisis, with President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa now tasked with deciding the next steps, which could include appointing a new prime minister or dissolving parliament to call for new elections.
Election Results and Political Fragmentation
In the snap elections held in March 2024, the centre-right Democratic Alliance, led by Luís Montenegro, narrowly won but did not secure a majority. Both the Democratic Alliance and the Socialist Party, now led by Pedro Nuno Santos, received about 29% of the vote. The far-right Chega party, led by André Ventura, emerged as a significant force, securing 18% of the vote and 48 seats in the 230-seat parliament. This result has led to one of the most fragmented parliaments in Portugal’s recent history.
Key Political Parties and Figures
Socialist Party (PS): Dominated Portuguese politics under António Costa since 2015. Now led by Pedro Nuno Santos, the party faces challenges in regaining public trust amid corruption allegations.
Democratic Alliance (AD): A centre-right coalition led by Luís Montenegro, which has gained ground but struggles to form a majority government.
Chega (Enough): A far-right party that has capitalized on public discontent with traditional parties, focusing on issues like corruption and immigration.
Corruption and Governance
The corruption probe that led to Costa’s resignation has highlighted issues within the government, particularly concerning lithium exploration schemes and a green hydrogen mega-project. This scandal has shaken public confidence in the ruling party and has implications for future governance and policy-making.
Economic and Social Challenges
Portugal faces several economic and social challenges, including high public debt, unemployment, and social inequality. The political instability adds to these challenges, making it difficult for the government to implement long-term solutions.
Future Prospects
The immediate future of Portuguese politics is uncertain. President Rebelo de Sousa’s decision on whether to appoint a new prime minister or call for new elections will significantly impact the country’s direction. The rise of the far-right Chega party also suggests a shift in the political landscape, with potential implications for Portugal’s policies on immigration, law and order, and economic reform.