The shocking resignation of Portuguese PM Antonio Costa from his post amid a widespread corruption probe has sent a shock wave through the normally tranquil politics of the EU member.
By owning responsibility for corruption and resigning his post, Costa will in the long term strengthen democratic traditions in Portugal. The country had been under dictator rule of Antonio de Oliveira Salazar for a long time.
Political scandals involving the top leaders have almost become a norm in Europe with former French President Nikolas Sarkozy facing corruption charges and have been indicted. Portugal is not as powerful as other European nations and what happens in the country would not have much impact outside Portugal.
However, the scandal might leave a scar on Portuguese politics but it will boost the spirit of democracy in the country leaving a shining example for the rest of Europe.
Portugal might go through a difficult phase of uncertainty and turbulence in the wake of the investigations and the resignation of Costa as PM. But it will come through with greater faith in democracy and the rule of law.
