The PS stated this Friday, April 23, that it will first consult with the PSD regarding a new candidate for Ombudsman, acknowledging Tiago Antunes' decision to withdraw from the race after being targeted by a 'campaign from the radical right'. Speaking to the Lusa agency, PS parliamentary leader Eurico Brilhante Dias expressed respect for Antunes' decision not to stand for election again after his previous rejection, noting that his candidacy had originally been agreed upon with the PSD. Dias lamented that Antunes was subjected to pressure that over half of the PSD bench could not withstand, failing to follow their leadership's voting instructions. The PS leader confirmed no new invitations have been issued yet and hopes to conclude the election during May, noting that the party has other suitable candidates in mind. Antunes, a former Socialist Secretary of State, described his rejection as a form of 'cancellation' and stated he was condemned in a media pillory without cause.
PS understands Tiago Antunes' decision and says it will speak with PSD first regarding the Ombudsman nominee
Friday, 24 April 2026RSS
Context & Explainers
The Ombudsman (Provedor de Justiça) is an independent public institution that investigates complaints from citizens about the actions or omissions of public bodies. It can review cases, issue non-binding recommendations and publish reports, so tenants or landlords who face delays or irregularities with state housing supports can take their complaints there.
