Portuguese voters went to polling stations on Sunday to elect a new president, with three candidates nearly tied for a spot in a likely runoff. The political scene has become fragmented, marked by the rise of the far-right Chega party and public dissatisfaction with mainstream parties. The presidency in Portugal is mostly ceremonial but holds significant powers, such as dissolving parliament and vetoing laws.
Approximately 11 million voters were eligible to vote, and polling stations closed at 7 p.m. (1900 GMT). Exit polls were expected at 8 p.m., with results due later that night. The last poll showed Socialist Antonio Jose Seguro leading with 25.1%, followed closely by Chega leader Andre Ventura at 23%, and Joao Cotrim de Figueiredo from the Liberal Initiative party at 22.3%. Chega, known for its anti-establishment and anti-immigration stance, became the main opposition in a parliamentary election last May.
Despite some polls predicting Ventura slightly ahead, he faces a high rejection rate from voters. Analysts suggest that a runoff between Seguro and Ventura would be more predictable, whereas one involving Cotrim de Figueiredo would be harder to forecast. There are eight other candidates, causing frustration among voters about the choice available.
With information from Reuters
