Portugal’s 11 presidential candidates debate migration, instability

SCMP
2026.01.04 09:35
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A record 11 candidates are competing in Portugal's presidential election, set for January 18. The leading candidates include Luís Marques Mendes from the Social Democratic Party and António José Seguro from the Socialist Party, with challenges from André Ventura of the Chega party and independent Henrique Gouveia e Melo. The president, while largely a figurehead, has significant powers, including vetoing legislation and dissolving Parliament. Key issues include proposed citizenship limits, labor reforms, and a law on euthanasia. Nearly 11 million voters are eligible to participate in the election.