Key Facts
• Chega, a far-right populist party, was founded in 2019 by André Ventura.
• Ventura, a former Catholic priest trainee and soccer commentator, created Chega due to dissatisfaction with existing parties.
• In October 2019, Chega won its first parliamentary seat in Portugal’s 230-seat unicameral legislature.
• The party expanded its seats to 12 in 2022, 50 in 2024, and 60 in May 2025.
• Chega became the second-largest party in Portugal’s parliament in 2025.
• The party’s name, meaning “Enough” in Portuguese, reflects its anti-establishment stance.
• Chega’s platform focuses on anti-immigration policies and combating corruption.
• The rise of Chega disrupts the dominance of Portugal’s two major parties: the Social Democratic Party (center-right) and the Socialist Party (center-left).
• A billboard near Portugal’s parliament urges voters to “Save Portugal” by supporting Chega.
• Comparisons have been drawn between Chega and Japan’s Sanseitō party, which also gained traction in recent elections.
Summary
Chega, a far-right populist party in Portugal, has rapidly grown since its founding in 2019 by André Ventura. Initially securing one parliamentary seat, the party expanded to 60 seats by May 2025, becoming the second-largest political force in the country. Chega’s platform, centered on anti-immigration and anti-corruption policies, resonates with voters dissatisfied with traditional parties. This rise challenges the long-standing dominance of Portugal’s Social Democratic and Socialist parties. The party’s momentum mirrors the recent success of Japan’s Sanseitō party, highlighting a global trend of populist movements gaining ground. Chega’s growth signifies a shift in Portugal’s political landscape, reflecting broader discontent with established political systems.
