André Ventura, leader of the Portuguese party Chega, has called on the Prime Minister to provide swift and transparent explanations regarding the government's purchase of shares in the energy company REN. Ventura made the appeal during a visit to the Festa da Senhora da Piedade in the eastern part of the island of Madeira. He emphasized the importance of transparency in this deal, which he considers one of the largest public interventions in recent years.
Ventura's appeal comes amid reports that government members or their associates may have received commissions and hold shares in REN. The Chega party plans to request that the Finance Minister appear in Parliament to clarify the matter. Ventura stressed that everyone must comply with the law and that the government's lack of clear explanations raises concerns. He argued that the purchase of REN shares and the subsequent increase in value directly benefited those holding shares.
According to Ventura, this issue is not about gossip or intrigue but about ensuring transparency. He urged government members not to hide behind confidentiality laws and to demonstrate impartiality in such deals. Ventura emphasized that the public needs to know if government members or their families hold REN shares and if any commissions were paid in the deal. He warned that a lack of transparency could lead to a situation similar to the Luis Neves case.
Ventura considered it essential for the Prime Minister to provide explanations before the Finance Minister appears in Parliament. He argued that this would prevent further speculation and concerns about potential corruption. The Chega leader believes that transparency is the best solution and that the requested explanations are not a matter of personal privacy. He insisted that the public has the right to know about potential conflicts of interest.
Ventura described the situation as grave and potentially involving corruption. He called for swift clarification to avoid prolonging the speculation. The Chega leader also criticized the government for sometimes contributing to the creation of such "novelas" by not providing clear explanations. He warned that if the government decides not to clarify the situation, Chega will use available parliamentary instruments.
During his visit to the Festa da Senhora da Piedade, Ventura also addressed the issue of fishing in the region. He highlighted the need to support the fishing industry, which he believes has been poorly managed. Ventura argued that it is essential to protect the livelihoods of fishermen and prevent the industry from disappearing. He noted that Chega has taken positions to support the fishing sector.
Ventura concluded by emphasizing the importance of transparency in the REN deal and the need for the government to provide clear explanations. He reiterated his appeal to the Prime Minister to address the concerns and prevent further speculation. According to RecordTV Cabo Verde, Ventura's statements reflect growing concerns about the government's handling of the REN deal.
Key points
- André Ventura urges Prime Minister to clarify government's purchase of REN shares.
- Chega party plans to request Finance Minister's appearance in Parliament.
- Ventura emphasizes need for transparency to prevent speculation and concerns about corruption.
