Lisbon (Portugal) — José Pedro Aguiar-Branco of the Social Democratic Party (PSD) secured re-election as Portugal Parliament President with a decisive 202 votes. The election took place during the first plenary session of the 16th Legislature Portugal Parliament.
Landslide Victory in the Portugal Parliament
Aguiar-Branco achieved a clear majority in the 230-seat Assembly of the Republic, the Portugal Parliament. He received 202 votes, far exceeding the required 116 for an absolute majority. There were 25 blank ballots and three null votes.
This marks a major improvement over 2024, when he was elected only after four rounds of voting and with just 160 votes.
Broad Cross-Party Support in Portugal Parliament
To avoid last year’s deadlock, the PSD built alliances across the political spectrum. Notably, both the Socialist Party (PS) and right-wing Chega party did not oppose his nomination. This paved the way for a smoother election process and a predictable result.
Aguiar-Branco was the sole candidate for the role as Portugal Parliament President. The PSD formally nominated him, and no other party proposed an alternative.
Political and Professional Background
A veteran politician and lawyer, José Pedro Aguiar-Branco previously served as Minister of Defense and Minister of Justice. In the recent legislative election, he led the AD (PSD/CDS-PP) list in the Viana do Castelo constituency.
Parliamentary Rules and Election Procedure
According to Portugal’s parliamentary rules, the president of the Assembly is elected during the first plenary session of each new legislature. A candidate must secure an absolute majority—at least 116 votes—to be elected.
This time, the outcome was confirmed on the first attempt, signaling both political strategy and consensus.
What This Means for Portugal
Aguiar-Branco’s re-election strengthens the PSD’s position in Parliament. His broad support suggests a period of greater legislative stability. Analysts expect smoother proceedings in upcoming parliamentary sessions.
Portuguese Parliament – Assembleia da República.
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