Portugal’s parliament approved the 2025 state budget with PSD and CDS supporting it. The Socialist Party (PS) abstained.
Opposition parties, including Chega, Iniciativa Liberal, and Bloco de Esquerda, voted against the budget despite earlier securing amendments. During the vote, PSD and CDS applauded the outcome, while Chega members protested, holding placards reading, “This Parliament has no shame.”
Before the session, Chega displayed banners on the Assembly building accusing politicians of raising their own salaries. The banners featured images of Prime Minister Luís Montenegro and other leaders with money covering their faces. Assembly President José Pedro Aguiar-Branco called these actions “political vandalism” and disrespectful to parliament.
Disagreements Over Budget Responsibility
Prime Minister Luís Montenegro praised the budget’s approval, calling it a significant milestone achieved in a challenging parliamentary context. He highlighted contributions from PS and Chega, noting their involvement in decisions shaping the budget, even those opposed by the government.
PS leader Pedro Nuno Santos rejected claims of supporting the government. He insisted the budget is solely the government’s responsibility. “PS abstained to ensure the state’s functionality,” he said, citing dissatisfaction with government setbacks in key areas.