The Speaker of Parliament (Presidente da Assembleia da República), José Pedro Aguiar-Branco, has admitted a bill from the Chega party that proposes raising the maximum prison sentence from 25 to 40 years. While allowing the bill to proceed, José Pedro Aguiar-Branco noted potential constitutional problems that require strict scrutiny by parliamentary committees. Separately, a report concluded that Socialist deputy Eva Cruzeiro breached her duties by calling Chega members racists during a session, though no legal sanction is possible.
Parliament Speaker admits Chega bill to increase maximum prison sentences
Friday, 20 March 2026AI summary
Context & Explainers
José Pedro Aguiar-Branco is the President of the Assembly of the Republic, Portugal’s parliament, elected to the post in 2024. A lawyer from Porto and a senior PSD figure, he previously served as Minister of Justice and as Minister of National Defence.
6 sources
- Aguiar-Branco admits Chega's bill to increase sentences, but with reservationsPúblico ·
- The 1982 gentlemen's agreement that Chega is shakingObservador ·
- Parliament concludes that Eva Cruzeiro breached "fundamental duties" by calling Chega deputies racistsCNN Portugal ·
- Parliament 'censures' Socialist Eva Cruzeiro for calling Chega deputies racistsECO ·
- Parliament concludes that Eva Cruzeiro (PS) breached duties by calling Chega deputies racistsCorreio da Manhã ·
- Aguiar-Branco admits Chega bill to increase sentences but with constitutional reservationsRTP Notícias ·
