Portugal is on course for its third general election in just over three years, following a vote of confidence loss by Prime Minister Luís Montenegro. The opposition Socialist party tabled the motion after discovering that Montenegro’s business dealings were under scrutiny.
A company set up by Montenegro, Spinumviva, continues to receive significant income from clients despite controversy surrounding its ownership and services. The legality of the transfer of assets to his wife is also being questioned.
Montenegro claims Spinumviva provides consultancy services on data privacy laws, but the Bar Association is investigating whether the company is offering illicit services typically reserved for lawyers. The Prime Minister’s cabinet has recently approved a range of spending measures in an attempt to appear active in governance.
This development presents an opportunity for far-right party Chega to renew its criticism of corruption in politics. However, the party itself faces ongoing scandals, including accusations against three of its MPs.
The current government coalition trails the Socialists in opinion polls and fears voters may not be enthusiastic about another election so soon after the previous one. Nevertheless, Portugal’s President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa has expressed a willingness to dissolve parliament if necessary, setting the stage for May elections.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cgm1nzj2yvko