Why it matters:
The fall of Montenegro's government highlights the ongoing political instability in Portugal and raises questions about the future direction of the country, particularly in light of the opposition's concerns over government contracts.
The big picture:
The administration, which has been in power for only eleven months, faced significant scrutiny from the opposition regarding contracts established with a consulting firm. The government will continue to operate temporarily while President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa consults with political parties and prepares for potential parliamentary elections.
What he's saying:
After the no-confidence vote, Montenegro stated, "We did everything to prevent early elections."
He also attempted to persuade the Socialist opposition to abstain from the vote and proposed a parliamentary investigation into his firm, which the Socialists rejected.
Key points:
- The minority government of Prime Minister Luís Montenegro collapsed after failing to secure a vote of confidence in Parliament, with 142 representatives opposing the government and 88 supporting it.
- The opposition raised concerns about contracts with a consulting firm.
- Montenegro denied any wrongdoing regarding these contracts.
- The government will remain in a caretaker role until further political consultations.
Go deeper:
Anti-Racism Demonstration in Portugal
Zohre Khazaee
