"Moderate socialist Antonio Jose Seguro came out on top in the first round of Portugal's presidential election on Sunday, followed by the far-right leader Andre Ventura, and the two will face off in a runoff on 8 February. In the five decades since Portugal threw off its fascist dictatorship, a presidential election has only once before required a runoff in 1986 highlighting how fragmented the political landscape has become with the rise of the far right and voter disenchantment with mainstream parties."
"The presidency is a largely ceremonial role in Portugal but wields some key powers, including in some circumstances to dissolve parliament, to call a snap parliamentary election, and to veto legislation. With all the votes in Portugal counted, Seguro garnered 31.1%. Ventura was at 23.5%. Joao Cotrim de Figueiredo of the rightwing, pro-business Liberal Initiative party came third among a total of 11 contenders, winning about 16%."
Antonio Jose Seguro led the first round of Portugal's presidential election with 31.1% and will face far‑right leader Andre Ventura, who won 23.5%, in an 8 February runoff. The presidency is mostly ceremonial but can dissolve parliament, call snap elections and veto laws. Joao Cotrim de Figueiredo of the Liberal Initiative placed third with about 16% among eleven candidates. The anti‑establishment Chega party became the main opposition earlier in the year with 22.8%, shifting debates especially on immigration toward more restrictive policies. Opinion polls show Ventura trailing due to a rejection rate above 60%.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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