Em statements to journalists at the Assembly of the Republic following the state of the nation debate, André Ventura announced that he is “finalizing invitations” for his “shadow government,” stating that while some invitations have been sent, certain areas still require attention. He expects to have this executive ready “in the coming weeks”.
“It’s important to start the next legislative session with a shadow government already scrutinizing the Government’s actions,” he said, highlighting the intent to hold a “public presentation session” for this executive.
When asked if he intends to present the “shadow government” before the Assembly of the Republic resumes on September 17, André Ventura replied, “Even if Jesus were to come back to earth, we wouldn’t have the shadow government ready before the parliamentary session resumes.”
Regarding whether this alternative government will resemble the current executive in composition, Ventura stated it “will be shorter” but “will include even better names than the current ones”.
On May 20, two days after the last legislative elections, the leader of Chega announced, following a meeting with the President of the Republic, plans to present “an alternative government”.
The following day, in an interview with SIC, he indicated this would be a “shadow government” comprising “a large part” of individuals from outside the party. The goal would be to have a team ready to govern the country when needed.
In another interview on the same day with TVI and CNN Portugal, André Ventura mentioned that Chega would present “in the coming weeks” a “shadow government to oversee government activity in various areas,” consisting of “independents, valued members of civil society, individuals with expertise in health, housing, and economy”.
Later, on June 6, he stated he would begin sending invitations that same day.
In an interview with Antena1 on June 18, he noted he was in no rush and aimed to present this team before the parliament suspends the legislative session for summer holidays.
Despite the announcement in May, the “shadow government” has yet to be presented.
