Portugal elections: center-right alliance claims victory, rejects role of far-rightistsLuis Montenegro, leader of Portugal's center-right Democratic Alliance, has declared victory after a bitterly contested parliamentary election. The Democratic Alliance and the Socialist Party won 28.67% each, with the far-right Chega party in third place with 18%. Montenegro promised not to rely on Chega to run the country and not to make deals with populists. It is crucial for political parties in the new parliament to act responsibly and conform to the wishes of the Portuguese people.
The election result marked a huge leap for Chega, which was founded five years ago by André Ventura. The vote was triggered by the resignation of Socialist Prime Minister António Costa in November following an investigation into alleged mismanagement of his administration.
The Socialists had hoped the threat of the far-right's rapprochement with the government would rally center-right voters.
The Democratic Alliance offered the prospect of change after eight years of Socialist rule, promising to promote economic growth.
