A formal agreement has been reached between the leaders of the PSD/Madeira, Miguel Albuquerque, and the CDS-PP/Madeira, José Manuel Rodrigues, following Sunday’s regional elections. The Social Democrats fell short of an outright majority in the Madeiran parliament by one seat, having secured 23 of the 24 required seats.
The agreement stipulates that, while each party retains its distinct political activity and identity, it is crucial for future electoral processes—both national legislative and municipal this year—that negotiations are pursued to establish coalition agreements.
This political accord is set for the XV Legislature of the Autonomous Region of Madeira’s Legislative Assembly and the XVI Regional Government of Madeira from 2025-2029. It commits the two parties to jointly support the Government’s Program through confidence motions, the Regional Budget, and legislative proposals.
The signing parties emphasize a loyal, effective, and solidary relationship to assure parliamentary and governmental stability for the next four years.
Miguel Albuquerque confirmed that José Manuel Rodrigues would join the cabinet, although he did not specify which position Rodrigues would hold, citing necessary institutional protocols.
Signed in Funchal, the document mandates that the government prioritize the election manifesto of the PSD/Madeira while integrating elements from the centrist party’s platform.
The agreement highlights key priorities such as staunch support for Autonomy and its expansion through constitutional revisions, adjustments to the Political-Administrative Statute, and the Regional Finance Law.
Other pressing priorities listed are salary increases, tax reductions, enhancing housing policy, and bolstering healthcare, security, and civil protection measures.
The accord, pending ratification from each party’s respective bodies, also seeks to foster social cohesion and justice, advocate for quality education, promote equality, and combat domestic violence and poverty.
Based on the final election results announced at the Palácio de São Lourenço, Funchal, the PSD claimed victory in Sunday’s Madeiran regional elections without securing an absolute majority, earning 62,059 votes and 23 seats. The JPP secured 30,091 votes (11 seats), the PS 22,351 (eight seats), Chega 7,821 (three seats), CDS 4,289 (one seat), and IL 3,097 (one seat).
[Updated at 19:41]
