PSD's Miguel Albuquerque Confirms Solo Run in Upcoming Regional Elections

PSD's Push for Swift Regional Elections

The Social Democratic Party (PSD) was the first to be received by Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, advocating for regional elections to be held as soon as possible. Although a specific date has not been set, March 9 has been indicated as the preferred choice by Miguel Albuquerque, who was accompanied by Guilherme Silva, Miguel de Sousa, and Hugo Soares, the national secretary general of PSD. Albuquerque firmly stated that the PSD-M will go into the elections alone, dismissing any possibility of a pre-election coalition.

Urgency for Democratic Clarity

Albuquerque expressed the urgency of the situation, noting, "We came to request the President of the Republic to schedule the regional elections as soon as possible, as Madeira is currently without a Budget, without a Government, and it is essential to restore the voice of the people through democratic clarification."

Internal Party Matters

When asked about a request for a congress of PSD-M backed by over 500 signatures from members, Albuquerque assured that the party's statutes will be respected, and the request has been forwarded to the Regional Council and the Council of Jurisdiction. However, he remains skeptical about any internal elections, labeling them as "suicidal" and a way to aid their adversaries.

Awaiting President’s Decision

Albuquerque refrained from speculating on the President's decision, who is currently consulting all parties represented in the regional parliament. He emphasized that ultimately, it is the people who must make the decision, while underscoring the need for a comfortable majority to ensure effective governance.

Electoral Challenges

He pointed out that the real issue lies not with him but with an electoral law that complicates the formation of majorities. "I will be the candidate for the PSD, and I have the clear support of the national president and the secretary-general. It is no coincidence that the secretary-general is here," Albuquerque asserted.

Party Leadership

Hugo Soares, the national secretary-general of PSD, when asked if Albuquerque was the right choice for the upcoming elections, refrained from elaborating and reminded that the representatives of PSD-Madeira are chosen by the party members themselves, as the party defends and respects Autonomy.