António Vitorino Warns: The Real Challenge Begins After Elections in Portugal

António Vitorino's Call for Stability

Former European Commissioner António Vitorino emphasized the need for common sense in finding a solution for Portugal that ensures stability. He expressed greater concern about the day after the elections than the elections themselves.

“We will know [if we will have elections in May] tomorrow [Tuesday]. I hope there is common sense and a solution that guarantees stability. Elections are legitimate. What worries me more is the day after the elections,” stated Vitorino.

Current Political Climate

Speaking in Vila Nova de Gaia at a conference titled “Immigration: The Challenge of Proximity”, Vitorino refrained from commenting on the current political situation in Portugal or whether it could have been avoided, reiterating only the legitimacy of elections.

“Elections are a legitimate way to resolve deadlock situations,” he noted, while still contemplating a potential candidacy for the Presidency of the Republic.

The political crisis at hand may lead to the collapse of the PSD/CDS government under Luís Montenegro if the confidence motion presented by the minority government fails.

The Role of Political Dialogue

Vitorino stressed that it is the responsibility of political leaders to define the rules of the game and what can be expected from electoral outcomes.

“In democracy, dialogue between political parties is fundamental. If there is a deadlock or an unyielding situation, elections serve as a means of resolution,” he concluded.

This Monday marks what could be the last Council of Ministers meeting of the current government, as parliament is set to debate a confidence motion that is expected to be rejected by the PS and Chega.

Tensions Among Political Leaders

At 21:00, the PS will hold a national political committee meeting in Lisbon, following a gathering between Socialist leader Pedro Nuno Santos and district federation leaders.

During a Women’s Day lunch in Maia, Porto, Montenegro stated that he sees no alternative to early elections, asserting his responsibility to prevent Portugal from becoming mired in controversy.

In response, Santos accused the Prime Minister of dragging the country into turmoil, asserting that the right-wing government can never gain the confidence of the Socialists.

Implications of a Confidence Vote

If the confidence vote fails, it will lead to the resignation of the government. The President of the Republic has indicated that possible dates for early legislative elections could be May 11 or 18.

The current political crisis began in February with allegations regarding Luís Montenegro’s family business, raising concerns about compliance with public office incompatibility rules. Following weeks of allegations and two failed motions of censure against the government, Montenegro announced a confidence motion on March 5.