The PS/Madeira has expressed its deep sorrow over the passing of Emanuel Jardim Fernandes, the former party president and past deputy in regional, national, and European parliaments, as announced in a statement by the Madeira socialists.
Emanuel Jardim Fernandes, 81, a lawyer by profession, was a key figure in the PS/Madeira since its inception, elected to the Regional Legislative Assembly in its first term in 1976.
He served multiple terms in the regional parliament and became the president of PS/Madeira in 1980, holding the position until 1993, before returning to the leadership in 1996.
He was also a deputy in the Assembly of the Republic twice (1983-1985 and 1991-1995) and served in the European Parliament from 2004 to 2009.
The current leader of PS/Madeira, Paulo Cafôfo, emphasized “the serious and committed manner in which Emanuel Jardim Fernandes always dedicated himself to the causes he believed in.”
Cafôfo also praised “his humanist approach and the significant contributions he made to some of the great achievements in the Region, which led to him being awarded the rank of Grand Officer of the Order of Infante D. Henrique in 2001.”
He described Fernandes as a “charismatic figure, an example of non-conformity in the fight against the regime and established interests, ultimately becoming indelibly linked to the history of PS/Madeira, and was even recognized as Honorary President of the party.”
The death of the former regional leader “leaves all socialists with a sense of mourning and loss, but also gratitude for his history of struggle and dedication,” he concluded, noting that “one of the ‘Greats’ of the political, social, and business life of the Region has departed, leaving a legacy we must all recognize and appreciate.”
Rubina Leal, the president of the Legislative Assembly of Madeira from the Social Democratic Party, also expressed her condolences for the passing of Emanuel Jardim Fernandes.
Rubina Leal highlighted that “the former PS leader early on engaged in civic and political life, leaving a legacy of defending his convictions and ideals, particularly in his parliamentary work during his mandates as a deputy.”
The Political Commission of CDS-PP/Madeira also expressed deep sorrow over Emanuel Jardim Fernandes’ death, recalling that “he was a man of dialogue and consensus always standing for regional interests.”
According to the Christian Democrats, “he leaves the Region a legacy as a Democrat and Autonomist that history will not forget.”
