In a closely contested general election, Portugal’s main centre-right party, the Democratic Alliance (AD), narrowly defeated the incumbent Socialists but fell short of securing a majority in parliament. The election results, announced early Monday, showed the AD capturing 29.49% of the vote, just ahead of the Socialists with 28.66%.
Far-Right Chega Emerges as Potential Kingmaker
The election also saw a significant surge for the far-right party Chega, led by former priest trainee and television football commentator Andre Ventura. Chega captured 18% of the vote, giving it 48 seats, up from just 12 in the previous election in 2022. With the backing of the new business-friendly party Liberal Initiative (IL), which won 8 seats, the AD would still need the support of Chega to reach a majority in parliament.
Demands for Change and Stability
Ventura, addressing his supporters late Sunday, emphasized Chega’s desire to provide Portugal with a stable government. Despite previously ruling out post-election agreements with the far-right party, AD leader Luis Montenegro may now face pressure from within his own party to negotiate with Chega in order to secure governance.
Campaign Issues and Voter Concerns
The AD campaigned on promises to boost economic growth by cutting taxes and addressing issues in public health services and education. Chega, on the other hand, focused on concerns about crime and rising immigration, advocating for stricter controls over immigration and tougher measures to fight corruption
Surprises and Expectations
The unexpected resignation of Socialist Prime Minister Antonio Costa in November following an influence-peddling probe added an element of surprise to the election. While Costa’s government achieved economic growth and reduced unemployment, many voters expressed dissatisfaction with the state of public services and housing crisis.
Hopes for the Future
As the dust settles on the election, many Portuguese citizens, like 23-year-old financial services worker Adolfo Cesar Pereira, express hope for a better future with the AD’s win.
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Credit : Doris Chinwe Omemgbeoji