Portugal's Government Faces Potential Collapse After Losing Confidence Vote

Portugal's center-right government, led by Prime Minister Luis Montenegro, faced a setback on Tuesday as it lost a confidence vote in parliament. The vote, which resulted in 142 against and 88 in favor, raises the possibility of the country holding its third general election in three years. The motion of confidence was presented by Montenegro after the opposition raised concerns about his dealings with a consultancy firm founded by him. Allegations surfaced that the firm, currently managed by Montenegro's sons, had contracts with private companies dependent on government contracts. Montenegro denies any misconduct. Following the vote, President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa will consult with political parties to decide whether to call an election, potentially for mid-May. The Democratic Alliance (AD) coalition, led by Montenegro, won the March 2024 elections but lacks a majority in parliament.