Portuguese government criticises opposition after surviving censure motion

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Posted Oct 12, 2026, 09:00 PM UTC · In the digest of 2026-10-12-2100
Portuguese government criticises opposition after surviving censure motion
Photo: Diário de Notícias (DN)

Portugal's minority government survived a censure motion brought by Chega, criticising opposition parties while pledging to continue flexible negotiations.

Portugal's minority coalition government has criticized both the far-right Chega party and the main opposition Socialist Party following the rejection of a parliamentary censure motion. The motion, introduced by Chega over controversies involving the internal administration ministry, failed as anticipated after Socialist lawmakers abstained from the vote.

Speaking at the conclusion of the three-hour parliamentary debate, Minister of the Presidency António Leitão Amaro stated that citizens would render a "political judgment" regarding Chega's decision to bring forward a motion destined for defeat. Despite sharp exchanges between political leaders, government officials reiterated that the executive maintains no "preferred partner" in parliament and will continue negotiating legislation on a case-by-case basis.

Sources: Diário de Notícias (DN), Expresso, RTP (Rádio e Televisão de Portugal)

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