Budget Proposal Fails Amid Divided Legislature
In a historic decision, the Regional Parliament of Madeira rejected the 2025 budget and investment plan proposed by the government of Miguel Albuquerque, leader of the Social Democratic Party (PSD). This marks the first time since the island's autonomy was established in 1976 that a regional budget has been turned down. The vote reflected deep divisions, with only the PSD and its parliamentary partner, CDS-PP, voting in favor, while all opposition parties - PS, JPP, Chega, IL, and PAN - firmly opposed the measure.
A Minority Government Struggles to Secure Support
The current assembly consists of 47 deputies, with 24 votes needed for a majority. The PSD holds 19 seats and CDS-PP 2, falling short of the necessary votes. Miguel Albuquerque’s government has faced challenges governing without a clear majority, and the rejection of the budget underscores the limitations of its alliance. The proposed budget of €2.6 billion and investment plan of €1.1 billion was touted by the minority government as the largest in Madeira's history. Despite these claims, opposition parties cited concerns about corruption, lack of strategic vision, and failure to address citizens’ needs.
Political Fallout and Accusations of Irresponsibility
Following the vote, Miguel Albuquerque accused opposition parties of "total irresponsibility," particularly targeting Chega for aligning with left-leaning parties. He argued that the rejection would delay critical projects, such as the new hospital and other infrastructure improvements. Miguel Albuquerque suggested that if necessary, new elections could be held, vowing that the PSD would "win again." In response, opposition leaders maintained that the budget served political interests rather than the needs of Madeirans. Paulo Cafôfo of the Socialist Party (PS) criticized the budget as an attempt to "save Albuquerque" while neglecting issues like poverty and healthcare.
No-Confidence Motion As a Potential Path to New Elections
A no-confidence motion against the government, tabled by Chega, is set for debate on December 17. The rejection of the budget may influence the outcome of this motion. If the motion passes, the region could head to its third election in just over a year. Albuquerque, determined to again lead his party into any potential election, dismissed the idea of internal leadership contests within the PSD. The political stalemate raises uncertainty about Madeira’s future governance, with both sides preparing for further clashes in the legislature and, possibly, at the ballot box.
Care for a share?
Comments