JPP Makes History: Elects First Deputy to Portugal's National Assembly

A new political force emerges in Portugal's National Assembly as the Juntos Pelo Povo (JPP) party elects its first deputy, Filipe Sousa, representing Madeira. This marks a significant milestone for JPP, which competed in 10 electoral districts, including Coimbra, Braga, and Lisbon, among others. Last year, the party fell short with only 19,145 votes (0.31%), but this year, they've turned the tide.

Filipe Sousa, a former PS militant for a decade, expressed his enthusiasm and commitment to bringing a community-focused project to the national stage. He highlighted concerns over the rise of extremism, stating, "When governments fail, extremisms increase," calling the election a "historic day."

Confident in their campaign, Sousa had earlier predicted making history, a prophecy now fulfilled. The JPP, originating from a citizen's movement against "jardinismo" in Madeira, has evolved from local victories to national representation. Their success in regional elections earlier this year, becoming the second most voted force with 11 deputies, set the stage for this national breakthrough.

Sousa, who served as Santa Cruz's mayor until his legislative candidacy, now aims to be a balancing force in parliament, ready to "play to the right or to the left" as needed. The JPP prides itself on being a people's party, "without ideology but with a humanist base," focusing on community and proximity.