Portugal's PM Costa resigns over corruption investigation

In Portugal, Prime Minister Antonio Costa has stepped down amidst an investigation into the alleged mishandling of lithium mining and hydrogen projects by his majority Socialist administration. Costa made the announcement in a televised statement after meeting with President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa. He stated that while his conscience was clear, he would not stand as a candidate for premiership again.

The investigation took a serious turn when Infrastructure Minister Joao Galamba was named as a formal suspect by prosecutors and Costa’s chief of staff was detained. In response, the opposition has called for the immediate resignation of the government.

Costa, however, declared that he was “fully available to cooperate” with the justice system after prosecutors identified him as a target in the investigation. He also emphasized the incompatibility of any suspicion regarding his integrity or conduct with the dignity of the role of prime minister.

Costa explained that the decision to resign was due to the understanding that the prime minister’s role should not be tarnished by any suspicion of criminal behavior. He made it clear that he was committed to cooperating with the investigation and ensuring the integrity of the office of the prime minister.

The resignation of Costa and the implication of his staff in the investigation has cast a cloud over the ruling Socialist administration. It has also raised concerns among the opposition, who are pushing for the government to step down immediately.

It is a significant development in Portuguese politics and has the potential to impact the future of the country’s leadership. The next steps following Costa’s resignation are likely to be closely monitored by both the public and political observers.

Overall, the uncertainty surrounding the investigation and its implications for the government has created a sense of unease within the country. The situation will continue to evolve as the investigation progresses and new leadership is sought.

Reported by Catarina Demony, Andrei Khalip, Sergio Goncalves and Patricia Rua, edited by Andrei Khalip