The Socialist Party (PS) legislator, Isabel Moreira, described the entry of Chega into a migrants’ protest in front of the Assembly of the Republic on Wednesday as a “provocation”.
When questioned by SIC Notícias regarding an incident of “excess” during the protest, the deputy commented, “I did not witness any excesses” from the demonstrators.
She added, “In a party where a deputy has referred to immigrants as rats [alluding to Rita Matias of Chega], it is natural that entering such a demonstration is provocative, a protest by immigrants, and that indeed is a provocation.”
“A true provocation is in a state of law, where immigrants are protesting in an authorized manner in front of the house of democracy, yet the topic once again centers on the far right rather than on these people.”
The socialist also argued that it is “natural” for immigrants to feel “frustrated” and noted that “these people often are not regularized due to the State’s responsibility, which is delayed, creates requirements not stated in the law, and is inhumane in family reunification.”
“These people work effectively, wish to continue working, and we would not survive without their contributions to Social Security,” concluded deputy Isabel Moreira.
The migrant protest, which had been peaceful outside the parliament on Wednesday afternoon, turned contentious after Chega’s leader, André Ventura, arrived on the scene.
“As the demonstrators were leaving the area around the Assembly of the Republic, the Chega leader appeared to address the journalists.”
At that moment, those present in the protest directed chants such as “fascist,” “racist,” and “Portugal belongs to those who work” towards André Ventura.
André Ventura remarked, “You want rules, the law serves those who want to follow rules. The law aims to set rules, we will not give up.”
The Chega leader departed the Assembly of the Republic chamber along with several party members and approached the front of the building, where the protesters were gathered.
Ventura remained at the site for about fifteen minutes, consistently accompanied by PSP and his personal security, amidst significant dissent from the attendees—a reaction expected for the now-presidential candidate.
