Leonor Beleza called for “discretion” regarding the Constitutional Court. The CDS was harsher and asked the socialists to accept being left out of the appointments. Livre and the Left Bloc regret that the PS has not “made it clear which side it is on”.
“The PSD never forgets the PS”: Leonor Beleza guarantees that “dialogue” for the Constitutional Court is still open. The Left is disappointed with Carneiro
Sunday, 29 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.
