Mendes presses health minister as campaign sharpens

Presidential candidate Luís Marques Mendes appealed to undecided voters ahead of the 18 January vote, presenting himself as the candidate of experience and stability and saying undecided voters will determine the outcome. He told supporters he is confident of finishing first and urged voters to choose the most prepared candidate. Expats following the campaign should note shifting appeals to undecided voters may change polling dynamics ahead of the likely second-round contest.

Update: Marques Mendes has directly challenged the Health Minister, demanding public explanations about failings in emergency departments and the state of the National Health Service (Serviço Nacional de Saúde or SNS). Several outlets report he travelled with ministers and local figures (including Rui Moreira) while criticising health-service performance — a clear attempt to make healthcare a campaign focal point. Expats should note healthcare is being used as a campaign issue and to check local guidance if policy proposals affect access or services.

Context & Explainers

Luís Marques Mendes is a veteran politician who led the Social Democratic Party (Partido Social Democrata or PSD) from 2005 to 2007 and has since worked as a lawyer and public commentator. His comments matter because, as a well-known public figure, he helps shape political debate—however, operational responsibility for emergency services lies with the Ministry of Health and the SNS (Serviço Nacional de Saúde), not with him personally.

The second round (segunda volta) is a runoff held if no candidate obtains more than 50% of votes in the first round; the top two candidates then compete head‑to‑head. For expats following elections, the second round is usually decisive because broader coalitions form and turnout and endorsements can change the outcome.