Prime Minister of Portugal

Role and position

The Prime Minister sets the government's agenda and exercises political and administrative leadership. Duties include proposing the composition of the cabinet, directing ministers in their portfolios, presenting major policy initiatives and submitting the state budget to the Assembly of the Republic for approval. The Prime Minister also represents the government in domestic institutions and in many international forums, often alongside the President.

Selection, tenure and confidence

Following legislative elections the President appoints as Prime Minister the politician most likely to obtain parliamentary support, typically the leader of the largest party or of a governing coalition. A government must retain the confidence of the Assembly of the Republic; a successful motion of no confidence, parliamentary defeat on a programme or other political crises can lead to resignation or to the calling of new elections. The Prime Minister remains in office while able to command parliamentary support and until a successor is appointed.

Powers and responsibilities

• Forming and dismissing the Council of Ministers and assigning ministerial portfolios
• Coordinating government policy and ensuring implementation of laws
• Preparing the state budget and legislative proposals for the Assembly
• Managing relations with Parliament, political parties and public administration

Constitutional context and history

The modern office was shaped after the Carnation Revolution and by the democratic constitution that followed, which balances powers among President, Parliament and Prime Minister. Compared with purely parliamentary systems, Portugal grants the President defined powers in appointment and crisis management, while everyday executive leadership normally rests with the Prime Minister and the Council of Ministers. For institutional overviews see general entries on the country’s head of government.