Portuguese government criticises opposition after surviving Chega censure motion

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Posted Oct 18, 2026, 11:00 PM UTC · In the digest of 2026-10-18-2300
Portuguese government criticises opposition after surviving Chega censure motion
Photo: Diário de Notícias (DN)

Portugal's minority government criticised Chega and the Socialists following the defeat of a parliamentary censure motion, reaffirming its case-by-case governance strategy.

Portugal's minority government criticized both the far-right Chega party and the main opposition Socialist Party following the defeat of a parliamentary motion of censure. The measure, introduced by Chega over controversies involving the internal administration ministry, was rejected after the ruling coalition voted against it and the Socialists abstained.

During closing remarks, Minister of the Presidency António Leitão Amaro stated that voters would pass a "political judgment" on Chega for filing a motion destined to fail. He also faulted the Socialists for abstaining rather than voting directly against the motion. Leitão Amaro affirmed that the administration will continue seeking parliamentary support on a case-by-case basis rather than relying on a "preferred partner."

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

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