Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa addresses the country after hosting a meeting of the Council of State at the Belem presidential palace in Lisbon, Nov 9, 2023. (PHOTO / AP)

LISBON - Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa on Thursday signed a decree to dismiss the government following Prime Minister Antonio Costa's resignation last month over a possible judicial investigation against him.

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The dissolution allows the government to carry out only essential administrative tasks until a new government assumes office.

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The president postponed the formal dismissal until the approval of the 2024 state budget by parliament to ensure stability during the transition period.

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His decision to dissolve the parliament on Jan 15, 2024 aligns with constitutional guidelines, paving the way for early legislative elections scheduled for March 10 next year.