Portugal's Political Turmoil: Confidence Vote Topples Government

Portugal's parliament dismissed the centre-right minority government led by Prime Minister Luis Montenegro in a no-confidence vote, leading to its collapse after just 11 months. This situation might prompt early elections, the third in three years, as President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa discusses the next steps.

In a dramatic turn of events, Portugal's parliament voted overwhelmingly against a confidence measure for the centre-right minority government on Tuesday, resulting in the administration's immediate downfall. With 142 lawmakers opposing the motion against just 88 in support, the decision marks a critical moment in the nation's political landscape.

Prime Minister Luis Montenegro, whose leadership has lasted a brief 11 months, introduced the motion in the wake of doubts cast on his integrity following controversies involving a consultancy firm he founded, now managed by his sons. This decisive vote sets the stage for early elections, marking the third electoral event for Portuguese voters in a little over three years.

In the aftermath of this political upheaval, Montenegro's administration transitions to a caretaker capacity. President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa is tasked with deciding whether to initiate a new parliamentary election after consulting with various stakeholders. Speculation suggests that any such election would be slated for mid-May, as the nation braces for its next electoral chapter.

(With inputs from agencies.)