Seguro showed concern regarding the deadlock in negotiations over external bodies of the Assembly of the Republic, which has been dragging on for months. At issue is the replacement of three Constitutional Court judges, the Ombudsman who was never replaced when Maria Lúcia Amaral joined the government, three names for the Council of State, among others, including the intelligence oversight committee.
Seguro expressed concern over Constitutional Court deadlock in private meetings with leaders to prevent leaks
Wednesday, 18 March 2026RSS
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.
