Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa has announced early elections set for May 18, marking the third national vote in three years. The decision comes after Prime Minister Luís Montenegro’s government lost a parliamentary confidence vote over allegations of conflicts of interest.
In a televised address on Thursday, de Sousa emphasized the need for a swift electoral process to prevent prolonged political instability. He stated that May 18 was the preferred date for most political parties.
On Wednesday, the president met with party leaders and, on Thursday, convened a meeting of the Council of State—composed mainly of political leaders—to consult before dissolving parliament. He urged parties to focus their campaigns on pressing national issues, particularly economic concerns and healthcare.
