Portugal's Democratic Alliance Wins Snap Election but Lacks Majority

In a closely watched snap election, Portugal's ruling right-of-centre Democratic Alliance has emerged victorious but remains short of a parliamentary majority. With a promise to "stimulate investment" and "guarantee prosperity and social justice," the party's leader, Luís Montenegro, addressed his supporters while acknowledging the country's fragmented political landscape. The recent elections mark the third in three years, reflecting deepening tensions in Portuguese politics.

The Socialist Party, led by Pedro Nuno Santos, faced significant losses, with the party's results placing them in a tight race with the far-right Chega party, which has gained ground on issues of immigration and corruption. In the aftermath of the defeat, Santos announced his resignation, while Chega's leader, André Ventura, heralded the results as a shift away from the traditional two-party system. The elections, provoked by scandals surrounding the previous government, highlight ongoing discontent towards established political practices in Portugal. As the country looks ahead, questions remain on how the new government will address pressing social issues amid a fractured political environment.