The grey smoke coming from Parliament

Wednesday, 8 April 2026RSS
The grey smoke coming from Parliament

After months without an understanding, it seems an agreement is in sight between the PSD, Chega, and PS to appoint the new judges of the Constitutional Court. A conversation with journalist Miguel Santos Carrapatoso.

Context & Explainers

The Constitutional Court (Tribunal Constitucional) is Portugal's highest court for constitutional review. Its primary role is to assess whether laws, decrees, and government actions comply with the Portuguese Constitution, and it has the power to strike down or suspend unconstitutional measures.

The court consists of 13 judges — 10 appointed by the Assembly of the Republic and 3 co-opted by the other judges. It also oversees the legality of political parties and their finances, verifies election results, and rules on the constitutionality of referendums.

The Constitutional Court is frequently in the news when opposition parties, the President, or the Ombudsman refer controversial legislation for review — such as labor reforms, housing laws, or immigration policy changes. Its rulings are final and binding.

View full article on observador.pt

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