The author argues that simply presenting facts and exposing the failures of populism is insufficient to counter its rise. The text posits that populism thrives on real grievances—such as economic precariousness and a sense of abandonment—which mainstream centre-left parties, like the Portuguese Socialist Party (PS), have failed to address due to internal stagnation, clientelism, and a lack of genuine renewal. To regain credibility, the centre-left must undergo a structural transformation, prioritising merit and concrete policy solutions—such as large-scale public housing and job-creating climate initiatives—over political routine. Ultimately, the author concludes that political parties must earn the right to be heard by first reforming their own internal practices.