Madeira political parties demand greater autonomy in 2027 Budget

Political parties in Madeira are criticizing the 2027 State Budget proposal, focusing on the need for greater regional autonomy and financial stability.

Filipe Sousa, a deputy for Juntos Pelo Povo (JPP), stated that the budget should not require Madeira to annually “extend its hand” to Lisbon to resolve regional issues. He argued that financial autonomy must be backed by clear, written rules and guarantees rather than just allocated figures on paper. Sousa noted that legal transfers and debt reduction funds should not be misrepresented as new, freely available investment capital.

Mariana Leitão, president of Iniciativa Liberal (IL), also advocated for deepening Madeira's autonomy. She suggested this could be achieved through fiscal reforms, allowing the region to manage its own resources and make independent decisions. Leitão criticized the current government's approach, suggesting that constitutional revisions to strengthen regional power have been sidelined, and expressed concerns regarding the high tax burden and public spending within the 2027 budget proposal.