The socialist António José Seguro has won Portugal’s presidential election decisively. He prevailed in the runoff held on Sunday against the far‑right candidate André Ventura.
With more than 98 % of the polling stations counted, Seguro’s share of the vote was virtually two‑thirds, almost exact to the decimals. In the first round he already led with roughly 31 % of the votes, while Ventura was at 23.5 %.
Incumbent President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, who has served two terms, was ineligible to run again. In Portugal’s semi‑presidential system the president’s role is largely ceremonial, yet he plays an important appointing function. Based on the election results, he nominates the prime minister, appoints army generals, ambassadors, the Attorney General, and the heads of the courts. He also has the authority to declare a state of emergency, among other powers.
