Miguel Castro Calls Out 'Censorship' in Madeira's New Hospital Controversy

CHEGA-Madeira Condemns Censorship

The political party CHEGA-Madeira has strongly condemned the restriction imposed by the construction company responsible for the new hospital in Madeira, preventing access to the public area of the site for a press conference.

According to Miguel Castro, the regional leader of the party, "this act of censorship is a prime example of the dictatorship experienced in Madeira, where an arrogant and abusive system considers itself 'owner of it all' and repeatedly disrespects democracy and fundamental rights."

Rights of Deputies

"Deputies have the duty and right, as enshrined in the Political-Administrative Statute of the Autonomous Region of Madeira, to oversee government actions and defend the interests of the Madeiran people. These rights include access to areas that, although restricted to the general public, are essential for fulfilling their roles or related to the execution of their duties. Obstructing the exercise of these competencies is an unacceptable institutional disrespect and a clear violation of the principles of transparency and accountability, which are fundamental to any democratic society," he explained.

Contrasting Government Priorities

Miguel Castro pointed out that CHEGA-Madeira aimed to highlight one of the most glaring contradictions of the government led by Miguel Albuquerque. He stated, "On one hand, there are constant threats of halting an essential public utility project like the new hospital, which should serve the health of the Madeirans. On the other hand, we see investments without hesitation in luxuries and leisure, such as the golf course in Ponta do Pargo. These choices reveal the priorities of a government that seems to disregard the real needs of the people to favor obscure interests."

Public Ownership of the Project

He emphasized, "It is unacceptable for the person responsible for the construction company to forget that the true owner of this project is the Madeiran people."

Miguel Castro: "Those who finance this project are the people, through their taxes. If the project has 'another owner', then let them pay for it out of their own pockets, because public money should serve the public interest, not private ones."

Demands for Transparency

CHEGA-Madeira demands urgent explanations from the Regional Government regarding this unacceptable episode and questions: "How is it possible that a project funded with everyone’s money is treated as private property?" According to Miguel Castro, "this is yet another example of the political terrorism that Miguel Albuquerque exercises over the population, imposing a regime of fear and blackmail to cover up incompetence and personal interests."

CHEGA-Madeira reaffirms that it will continue its fight for transparency, the interests of the Madeirans, and the unwavering defense of democracy, refusing to remain silent in the face of a government that insists on trampling the rights and dignity of those it represents.