The commemoration of November 25th at the Legislative Assembly of Madeira focused on its significance for the region’s autonomy, according to Rubina Leal during the ceremony. The event, attended by the Regional Government’s Secretary of Tourism, Environment, and Culture, Eduardo Jesus, emphasized the importance of this date for the archipelago’s self-governance.
Rubina Leal stated that recognizing November 25th is akin to celebrating the April revolution, symbolizing the triumph of moderation over extremism and safeguarding the freedom gained by the people. She argued that celebrating this date also honors Portugal’s institutional maturity, underscoring the necessity to defend freedom and peace daily.
Jaime Filipe Ramos, leader of the PSD parliamentary group, remarked that November 25th allowed Portugal to achieve what was envisioned on April 25th, saving democracy. He criticized the left’s consistent boycott of these commemorations, noting that democracy remains unfinished and the past 50 years have brought not only freedom but also the valuable autonomy to Madeira, which needs to be further developed to meet the archipelago’s challenges. He suggested that Portugal should acknowledge the role of autonomies in maintaining sovereignty and called for more power and resources, with a goal for a more autonomous constitution by 2026 and improved Regional Finance Law.
Mariusky Spínola from Juntos Pelo Povo (JPP), the main opposition party, highlighted issues in Venezuela, expressing solidarity with Portuguese citizens there. He stressed that democracy should not be taken for granted and must be safeguarded continuously.
PS parliamentary leader Paulo Cafôfo lauded November 25th as the consolidation of April’s values, recognizing his party’s contributions. He criticized Chega’s national leadership, promoting a genuine revolutionary spirit. He also advocated for equal rights for immigrants in Portugal, refuted claims of increased crime due to immigration, and emphasized domestic violence as a more significant threat.
Chega’s deputy Miguel Castro opined that Portugal regained its freedom on this date, accusing socialist policies of causing dependency and near-collapse of public services, alongside uncontrolled immigration and increased violent crime. He called for profound constitutional revision to fulfill Portugal’s potential.
Sara Madalena of CDS-PP credited November 25th with averting a leftist dictatorship, arguing that while April 25th provided freedom, November 25th secured democracy, which remains vulnerable.
Gonçalo Maia Camelo of Iniciativa Liberal (IL) stressed the historical significance of November 25th in choosing freedom, pointing out current unmet needs like housing affordability and mobility, issues exacerbated by populism and barriers like the Atlantic Ocean. He concluded by noting, “freedom is yet to be fully realized.”
