Portuguese government survives far-right censure motion after opposition abstains

Portugal's minority administration has survived a motion of censure introduced by the far-right Chega party after the main opposition Socialist Party chose to abstain during the vote.

The three-hour parliamentary debate addressed Chega's initiative criticizing the executive's governance and recent controversies involving internal administration officials. Ruling coalition lawmakers voted against the censure, ensuring its defeat alongside the Socialists' abstention.

During closing remarks, Minister of the Presidency António Leitão Amaro stated that voters would render a "political judgment" on Chega for introducing a measure guaranteed to fail. Leitão Amaro also criticized the Socialists for failing to vote directly against the motion, while reiterating that the cabinet will continue seeking parliamentary support on a case-by-case basis rather than relying on a permanent partner.

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