Portugal Election Shock: AD Wins, But Far-Right Chega Surges to Historic High
Lisbon, Portugal | May 2025 — In a political shake-up that may alter Portugal's future, the centre-right Democratic Alliance (AD) claimed victory in Sunday’s snap election — but fell short of a parliamentary majority. The far-right Chega party stunned analysts by capturing a record 22.6% of the vote, potentially overtaking the Socialists as Portugal’s main opposition party.
AD Wins 89 Seats But No Majority
Prime Minister Luis Montenegro declared the result a mandate to govern, despite securing only 89 out of 230 seats. He ruled out alliances with Chega and pledged to form a minority government.
“The Portuguese don’t want more snap elections, they want a four-year legislature,” Montenegro told supporters, echoing his campaign slogan: “Let Luís work.”
Chega Rises: From Fringe to Power Player
Chega, under André Ventura, gained 58 seats — an all-time high. Ventura, who collapsed on stage weeks earlier from an esophageal spasm, vowed not to stop until he becomes Prime Minister.
“This time I am not going to stop,” Ventura declared. “We’ve swept the left off the map in style.”
Socialist Party Implodes
Voters punished the Socialist Party (PS) for allegedly sabotaging Montenegro’s previous government. The PS dropped from 78 to 58 seats, prompting Pedro Nuno Santos to announce his resignation.
Economic Impact of Political Uncertainty
Analysts warn that continued political deadlock could delay key projects like:
- Privatization of TAP Air Portugal
- Lithium mining in Northern Portugal
- Deployment of EU recovery funds
Broader European Context
Chega’s rise mirrors far-right growth across Europe. With the Socialists weakened and Chega gaining influence, Portugal may be entering a new era of multi-party fragmentation.
Related:
- More European Politics on ClearAgenda »
Source: Club Of Mozambique