Portugal elects Socialist Party’s Seguro as president in landslide | Elections News
Seguro Wins Presidential Election in Portugal
Antonio Jose Seguro, 63, from the centre-left Socialist Party, has achieved a decisive victory in Portugal’s presidential election run-off, according to partial results released Sunday.
With 95 percent of ballots counted, Seguro has secured 66 percent of the vote, while his far-right rival, Andre Ventura, received 34 percent. Despite the defeat, Ventura’s performance marks a significant improvement, surpassing the 22.8 percent garnered by his anti-immigration Chega party in last year’s general election.
Two exit polls have forecasted Seguro’s share at between 67 and 73 percent, with Ventura estimated at 27 to 33 percent. The counting of ballots from major urban areas, including Lisbon and Porto, typically occurs later in the process.
Voter turnout remained robust, comparable to the first round held on January 18, even as severe storms led to the postponement of voting in three municipal councils in southern and central Portugal. Approximately 37,000 registered voters, or 0.3 percent of the total electorate, were affected, a factor unlikely to sway the overall outcome.
Portugal’s presidency is primarily a ceremonial role; however, it does grant the holder significant powers, including the ability to dissolve parliament.
During his campaign, Ventura criticized the government’s response to the recent adverse weather conditions, labeling it “useless.” He even called for a postponement of the election, which was rejected by authorities. In his last rally, Seguro accused Ventura of trying to discourage voter turnout.
Despite his loss, Ventura, a former television sports commentator, has underscored the rising influence of the far-right in Portugal and Europe. He is notable for being the first extreme-right candidate to reach a run-off election in the country.
Seguro presents himself as a “modern and moderate” leftist, advocating for mediation in political crises while defending democratic values. He received endorsements from notable conservative figures following the first round, reflecting worries about Ventura’s hardline approach.
Prime Minister Luis Montenegro, leading a minority centre-right government, has opted not to endorse either candidate in the final round.
The new president will replace outgoing President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa in early March.
