André Ventura accuses the Portuguese government of corruption linked to Sánchez's brother

The leader of the Portuguese party Chega, André Ventura, has denounced on X that the Government of Portugal might be involved in a corruption scheme related to brother Sánchez.

Ventura has requested an investigation in Portugal and has questioned the suitability of António Costa for holding national or European positions.

This controversy arises after the transfer of an agreement at the XXXIV Iberian Summit in March 2023. Where Pedro Sánchez and António Costa promoted the "Operegrina" project, led by David Sánchez.

The project, with a budget exceeding six million euros. Seeks to bring itinerant operas to towns in Badajoz and Portugal, within the framework of the Common Cultural Agenda.

Investigations by the UCO have revealed emails showing the active participation of the Spanish Ministry of Culture.  In addition to high-ranking officials in the development of David Sánchez's project.

The memorandum of understanding was signed by Miquel Iceta and Pedro Adão e Silva. All in the presence of Pedro Sánchez and António Costa, consolidating cross-border cultural collaboration.

The "Operegrina" project was presented as an initiative to transform the social, economic, and cultural reality in cross-border areas affected by depopulation.

David Sánchez has stated that he obtained his job through a Google search  and has denied any absenteeism at the Diputación de Badajoz.

André Ventura's denunciation intensifies the scrutiny over the relations between the governments of Spain and Portugal and the possible conflicts of interest in projects funded with public funds.

The opposition in both countries demands transparency and a thorough investigation to clarify the possible irregularities in the management of these cultural projects.

The Portuguese government hasn't yet issued an official reply to the accusations made by André Ventura in his post on X.

Cultural collaboration between Spain and Portugal has been a constant in bilateral relations, however, this incident could negatively affect such cooperation.

This case highlights the importance of establishing control and supervision mechanisms in the allocation and execution of projects funded with public resources.

The public expects the facts to be clarified and the necessary measures to be taken. To ensure integrity in the management of cross-border cultural initiatives.