Daniel Adrião announced that the Constitutional Court has ruled his expulsion from the Socialist Party (PS) illegal and invalid. Adrião, a four-time candidate for the party's leadership, stated that the ruling is a victory for the rule of law and internal party democracy, noting that his expulsion prevented him from participating in national party bodies and the recent National Congress. He is now demanding a public apology from the party, asserting that his previous independent candidacy for a local parish council did not justify the disciplinary action taken against him.
Daniel Adrião announces Constitutional Court decision to annul his expulsion from the PS
Saturday, 25 April 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.
