Portugal is set for its third consecutive snap election as Prime Minister Luís Montenegro faces a confidence vote amid allegations regarding his family’s business activities. Both the Socialist Party and Chega have indicated they will vote against the government, which could lead to early elections in May if Montenegro loses this vote. Previous political events and polling suggest a closely contested election ahead.
Portugal is preparing for its third snap general election in two years. Members of Parliament are set to debate a confidence motion that is likely to lead to the downfall of Prime Minister Luís Montenegro’s centre-right government and will trigger new elections, potentially scheduled for May. This situation arises amidst growing suspicions surrounding Montenegro’s business practices.
Prime Minister Montenegro, who leads the Democratic Alliance (AD) platform, initiated the confidence vote amidst concerns regarding his family’s business dealings. He has firmly denied any ethical misconduct, expressing a desire to eliminate what he calls a continuous atmosphere of insinuations and intrigues. However, both the centre-left Socialist Party (PS) and the far-right Chega party have declared their intentions to vote against his government.
In the 230-seat parliament, the PS and Chega hold a combined total of 128 seats, significantly overshadowing the AD’s 80 seats. If Montenegro fails to win the confidence vote, President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa is expected to dissolve parliament, initiating elections potentially on May 11 or 18.
The controversy revolves around Spinumviva, a data protection consultancy founded by Montenegro in 2021, which he transferred to his family shortly thereafter. Opposition parties allege that Spinumviva has profited from contracts with various private companies, including a casino and hotel enterprise, and is currently receiving payments from a company linked to a significant government gambling concession.
While there are no ongoing investigations into Spinumviva, prosecutors are examining an anonymous complaint regarding Montenegro’s involvement with the company. This unfolding political crisis follows the resignation of former Socialist Prime Minister António Costa in 2023, prompted by an investigation into alleged administrative illegalities related to green investment projects.
Costa had held office since 2015 and resigned despite not facing any criminal accusations, stating that the prime minister’s responsibilities were incompatible with any doubts about his integrity. The March 2024 election witnessed a close contest in which the AD secured 80 seats, slightly ahead of the PS with 78, while Chega increased its representation from 12 to 50 seats. Current polling indicates a potentially similar outcome for the forthcoming May election, with the AD at 30%, the PS close behind, and Chega in third place at 18%.
In summary, Portugal stands on the brink of yet another snap general election, driven by a confidence vote expected to signal the end of the current government. Allegations regarding improper business dealings and recent political history underline a complex situation that could lead to significant shifts in Portugal’s political landscape. As the country approaches the potential election dates in May, the dynamics between the major parties remain critical to watch.
Original Source: www.theguardian.com
