**Santos Silva** Declines Presidential Bid

Former University Rector Considers Independent Run

In a surprising turn, **Augusto Santos Silva** has abandoned his presidential aspirations, throwing his support behind an independent candidacy potentially led by **António Sampaio da Nóvoa**. This shift could significantly alter the political landscape.

Key Development

**Augusto Santos Silva** will not be a candidate for president. Instead, he has voiced his support for **António Sampaio da Nóvoa**, encouraging him to pursue an independent candidacy capable of uniting voices from the left.

Challenges Ahead

**António Sampaio da Nóvoa**, former rector of the University of Lisbon, is expected to announce his position soon. However, analysts suggest he faces a tougher path now compared to a decade ago, even with considerable support within the Socialist Party (PS).

Political polarization in Portugal has increased in recent years. According to a 2024 study by the University of Minho, 62% of Portuguese citizens believe that political divisions are deepening (University of Minho).