The governability of Portugal is being called into question as the center-right struggles to pass legislation without the support of the far-right party. Socialist leader Pedro Nuno Santos has announced that he will not block Democratic Alliance leader Luís Montenegro’s bid to form a government, but will not actively help pass bills either.
There are speculations about a potential alliance between Montenegro and the Chega party, which campaigned on an anti-corruption platform. However, with new elections unable to be called for six months, the hemicycle remains fractured.
President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa is set to meet with party leaders before deciding which candidate has the greatest chance to form a government. Montenegro is likely to be sworn in as prime minister next month, but the future for passing legislation remains uncertain.
If Montenegro chooses to work with the existing budget or renegotiate with the far-right party’s support, a minority government could operate until October. This has raised concerns about the stability and effectiveness of the government in Portugal. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing situation.
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