Portugal will hold early elections on May 18 after the government collapsed due to Prime Minister Luis Montenegro losing a confidence vote. This incident follows a history of governmental crises in recent years, leading to expected voter abstention despite a slight polling advantage for the Socialists over Montenegro’s coalition.
Portugal is set to conduct an early general election on May 18, after President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa dissolved parliament following Prime Minister Luis Montenegro’s loss in a confidence vote. This decision signifies the country’s third election in just over three years. President de Sousa emphasized the importance of civic duty amidst pressing national challenges.
The collapse of Montenegro’s government resulted from his involvement in a conflict of interest scandal related to his family’s law firm. Despite his denial of any wrongdoing, Montenegro will serve in a caretaker role until the formation of a new government.
Montenegro plans to contest the upcoming elections, although analysts predict that the recent confidence vote failure may negatively impact his standing among voters. In March 2024, the previous elections were prompted by Socialist leader Antonio Costa’s resignation amid a graft investigation involving his chief of staff, though Costa was not accused of corruption.
Current polls suggest a slight advantage for the opposition Socialists over Montenegro’s coalition, with both parties hovering around 30%. Given the context of consecutive governmental failures, voter abstention is anticipated to rise despite last year’s record turnout.
In summary, Portugal’s upcoming elections on May 18 follow a government collapse triggered by a confidence vote against Prime Minister Luis Montenegro. With a history of recent electoral disturbances due to scandals, voter abstention may increase despite previous high turnout. The political landscape remains competitive, albeit with many uncertainties ahead.
Original Source: www.dw.com