Portugal at crossroads, election day decides nation's political landscape

Voters have turned out in force on Sunday for an early election that could mark a rightward shift after eight years of Socialist rule.

As polling stations across the nation opened at 8:00 am, the final opinion polls revealed a tight race between the centre-right Democratic Alliance (AD) and the incumbent Socialist Party (PS). The AD, led by 51-year-old lawyer Luis Montenegro, is campaigning on promises to boost economic growth through tax cuts and improve public services.

Despite the AD’s narrow lead, the far-right party Chega, led by former trainee priest turned television football commentator Andre Ventura, emerges as a potential kingmaker. With the possibility of forming a governing coalition, the election results remain uncertain due to a significant number of undecided voters.

Analysts emphasize that the outcome of Portugal’s second election in two years is wide open, with exit poll projections expected at 8:00 pm.

Chega, meaning “Enough,” has gained prominence with its calls for tougher measures against corruption, stricter immigration controls, and chemical castration for certain sex offenders. The party made history in 2019 by securing its first seat in the 230-seat parliament and has since increased its representation to 12 seats in 2022. Current polls suggest a potential doubling of seats this time, aligning with a trend of far-right parties gaining ground across Europe.

The election was triggered by the unexpected resignation of Socialist Prime Minister Antonio Costa in November amidst an influence-peddling probe. Though not personally accused of any crime, Costa chose not to run again. Under his leadership, Portugal experienced economic growth, decreased unemployment, and improved public finances. However, critics argue that his government failed to address issues such as unreliable public health services, education, and a housing crisis.

The new leader of the Socialist Party, 46-year-old former infrastructure minister Pedro Nuno Santos, defended the government’s record, acknowledging room for improvement. As voters cast their ballots, the sentiment of “time for a change” echoed among many, reflecting concerns over corruption and a desire for a new government to improve Portugal’s international image.

The election outcome will shape the nation’s future political landscape, determining whether Portugal aligns with the right, continues with a left-leaning government, or faces the possibility of coalition politics with the far-right Chega party.