Chega faces internal district leadership battles in Aveiro and Braga

In the Aveiro district of Portugal, Manuel Almeida launched the "Unidos pelo Distrito, Unidos pelo Chega" slate, proposing a new cycle focused on unity, support for local councillors and greater internal transparency. He and his running mates Miguel Cruz and Susana Duarte criticized incumbent leader Pedro Alves for isolating the party base, describing the current structure as a "closed club of egos" and pledging to convene an early district assembly if elected.

Meanwhile, in the Braga district, Chega municipal leader Elisabete Rodrigues of Vila Verde publicly endorsed incumbent district president Carlos Barbosa for the internal election scheduled for 5 July. Rodrigues rejected accusations of betrayal, stating her decision resulted from consultations with militants and local officials, and she criticized rival candidate Filipe Melo for “losing principles”. The contest includes three candidates—Barbosa, Melo and Paulo Ralha—and reflects broader calls within the party for renewed accountability and grassroots participation.