Portuguese president dissolves government, sets stage for snap elections

Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa

LISBON, Dec. 7 (Xinhua) -- Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa on Thursday signed a decree to dismiss the government following Prime Minister Antonio Costa's resignation last month over a possible judicial investigation against him.

The dissolution allows the government to carry out only essential administrative tasks until a new government assumes office.

The president postponed the formal dismissal until the approval of the 2024 state budget by parliament to ensure stability during the transition period.

His decision to dissolve the parliament on Jan. 15, 2024 aligns with constitutional guidelines, paving the way for early legislative elections scheduled for March 10 next year.