Portugal’s Center-Right Election Victory: What it Means Without a Majority

Portugal recently held a snap election that saw its center-right coalition, led by Prime Minister Luís Montenegro, win but fail to gain a majority. The real story, however, became the significant rise of the hard-right Chega party. This party has transitioned from a small protest group to a serious political player in a country that has largely avoided hard-right ideologies.

Political scientist António Costa Pinto remarked, “Chega is the real winner” of this election. As of the latest counts, Montenegro’s Democratic Alliance secured about 32% of the vote, while the Socialist Party and Chega closely followed with around 23% and 22%, respectively. Montenegro’s coalition won’t collaborate with Chega, raising concerns about ongoing political instability in Portugal.

This election marks the third in just three years, following a no-confidence vote that ousted Montenegro’s previous government. His administration has faced challenges, including controversies over his business dealings, leaving it shaky from the start.

Chega, which translates to “enough” in Portuguese, has gained traction by tapping into anti-immigration sentiments and the frustrations of citizens feeling left behind by economic changes. Since its inception, it has promised stricter immigration controls and enhanced law enforcement. This approach seems to resonate as it received 18% of the vote just a year ago.

What’s interesting is that Chega is the first hard-right party to rise since Portugal’s political landscape transformed after the fall of the dictatorship in 1974.

Recent statistics show an ongoing trend. According to a survey by Eurobarometer, 37% of Portuguese people feel that immigration poses a significant problem, aligning with Chega’s stance. This growing sentiment indicates a shift in public opinion that could affect future elections, not just in Portugal but across Europe.

User reactions on social media reflect a mix of concern and support for Chega’s rise. Many express worries about the implications for democracy, while others applaud the party’s focus on law and order.

As Portugal moves forward, the balance of power remains uncertain. Will it embrace a new political chapter, or will instability continue to define its governance? Only time will tell.



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Politics and Government,Costa, Antonio (1961- ),Ventura, Andre (1983- ),Portugal,Chega (Portuguese Political Party)