Chega Leader's Blunder: Accuses President of Attending 'Hamburger Festival' in Germany, But It's Actually a Civic Event

Ventura's Misleading Accusation Against President Marcelo

André Ventura, the president of the Chega party, has sparked controversy by accusing Portugal's President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa of traveling to Germany to attend a 'hamburger festival.' This claim refers to the Bürgerfest event in Berlin, which Ventura misrepresented in social media posts.

The Backstory of the Vote and Accusations

On Wednesday, Ventura took to social media platform X to criticize the President's official visit, stating, 'The Parliament approved the President's trip to Germany for a hamburger festival. At the expense of our taxes. Do you think this is normal? Won't the Portuguese revolt?'

In a since-deleted Instagram video, Ventura doubled down on the accusation, holding a document and labeling the Bürgerfest as a 'hamburger festival.' However, this is factually incorrect—Bürgerfest translates to 'Citizens' Festival' in Portuguese, an official event held in the gardens of the German presidential palace to honor volunteer work and promote civic engagement.

Political Reactions and Fallout

The Chega party was the only one to vote against the President's trip in Parliament, with Ventura justifying it as a waste of taxpayer money. He claimed, 'Chega voted against, as is evident. This is a disgrace. But do you know why this happens? Because you don't know about it. You don't revolt because you're unaware.'

Hugo Soares, secretary-general of the PSD and parliamentary leader, responded sharply on social media, accusing Ventura of 'populism bacoco' (foolish populism).

Clarification from the Presidency

A note from the Presidency of the Republic, published online before the parliamentary vote, clarified that President Marcelo was invited by his German counterpart, Frank-Walter Steinmeier, to participate in the Bürgerfest, emphasizing its civic importance rather than any culinary focus.

This incident highlights the ongoing political tensions in Portugal, with Ventura's statements drawing criticism for misinformation.