Both Leonor Beleza, vice-president of the PSD, and Durval Tiago Ferreira, vice-president and spokesperson of the CDS, stressed that this was Marcelo's final message as Head of State.
PSD emphasises Marcelo's relationship with the Portuguese; CDS praises him as a 'beacon of responsibility'
Thursday, 1 January 2026RSS
Context & Explainers
The President of the Republic (Presidente da República) is Portugal's head of state, elected by direct popular vote for a five-year term, renewable once. The role is largely ceremonial but carries significant reserve powers that become crucial during political crises.
Key presidential powers include: appointing the Prime Minister (based on election results and parliamentary consultations), dissolving the Assembly of the Republic and calling new elections, vetoing legislation (which parliament can override), referring laws to the Constitutional Court, and declaring states of emergency.
The President also represents Portugal internationally, serves as Commander-in-Chief of the armed forces, and plays a moderating role in political disputes. António José Seguro has served as President since March 2026, following the two-round presidential election in January 2026.
