LISBON – Portugal will hold a presidential election Sunday, choosing a head of state to serve a five-year term as the country suffers through a national lockdown and a worsening coronavirus outbreak.Saturday is a day of political reflection, when campaigning and the publication of opinion polls are forbidden.
So here’s a look at the election:WHAT’S AT STAKE?The president in Portugal has no legislative powers, which lie with parliament and the government, but is an influential voice and under exceptional circumstances can dissolve parliament and call an early election.
The head of state can also veto legislation, although parliament can overturn that veto, and refer legislation to the Constitutional Court for vetting.