Portugal is at the polls again, with voters set to elect 230 deputies to the Assembly of the Republic and the country's new government. Follow the minute-by-minute updates of this Sunday's legislative elections here.
Latest Updates
- 17:40: President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa plans to listen to parties "calmly" throughout the week, urging Portuguese citizens to participate in the elections.
- 17:12: Voter turnout by 16:00 was 48.28%, lower than the 51.96% recorded at the same time in the last legislative elections.
- 17:06: BE/Madeira files a complaint with the National Election Commission against the Regional Government President for allegedly promoting the Democratic Alliance (AD).
Key Highlights
- Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa emphasized the importance of voting for stability, planning to convene parties next week for discussions.
- Voter turnout shows a slight decrease compared to the previous elections, with 5.5 million voters casting their ballots by 16:00.
- Controversies include complaints against political figures for alleged electoral law violations and incidents near polling stations.
Notable Statements
- Miguel Albuquerque (PSD/Madeira) hopes the country overcomes political instability, advocating for electoral reforms.
- André Ventura (Chega) encouraged voting, stating, "Don't let others choose for you."
- Pedro Nuno Santos (PS) called voting "the people's weapon," urging participation to defend democracy.
Voter Information
- 10.8 million Portuguese are eligible to vote in these elections, with polls closing at 19:00 in mainland Portugal and Madeira, and at 20:00 in the Azores.
- 21 political forces are competing, including one newcomer, the PLS, alongside established parties.
Incidents and Complaints
- A PS leader reported being assaulted by a Chega supporter near a polling station in Lisbon.
- A civic movement in Braga was barred from wearing anti-abstention t-shirts by the CNE, sparking legal appeals.
Historical Context
- The 2024 elections saw a 40.16% abstention rate, the lowest since 2005. Today's figures suggest a similar or slightly higher participation.
- The cost of these elections is estimated at €26.5 million, covering 22 electoral districts.
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