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Joaquim Miranda Sarmento, Portugal’s Minister of State and Finance, was hospitalized Wednesday, February 25, 2026, after feeling unwell. The incident raises questions about the stability of the Portuguese government and its financial policy direction.
As of mid-afternoon, the minister remained under observation at the Santa Maria Hospital in Lisbon.
Doctors ruled out a stroke following initial examinations.
According to reports, Miranda Sarmento may have experienced a transient ischemic attack, often referred to as a “mini-stroke.” This involves a temporary disruption of blood flow to the brain, which can cause neurological symptoms. The Portuguese Finance Minister will remain in the hospital overnight for observation.
“The Santa Maria Local Health Unit confirms that the Minister of State and Finance, Joaquim Miranda Sarmento, was admitted to the Central Emergency Department of Santa Maria Hospital this Wednesday morning, following a feeling of indisposition,” a statement from the hospital reads.
“The Santa Maria Local Health Unit confirms that the Minister of State and Finance, Joaquim Miranda Sarmento, was admitted to the Central Emergency Department of Santa Maria Hospital this Wednesday morning, following a feeling of indisposition,” a statement from the hospital reads.
“The Finance Minister underwent tests that ruled out a stroke, and is remaining under observation as a precaution,” the hospital added.
Miranda Sarmento was scheduled to close an event hosted by the Fomento Bank on Wednesday, but did not attend. That event has since been canceled.
Joaquim Miranda Sarmento, 47, has served as Minister of State and Finance since April 2024.
