The President of the Regional Government, Miguel Albuquerque, defended JPP MP Filipe Sousa, describing the investigation into an alleged improper benefit as "nonsense" and "hypocrisy." Albuquerque expressed full confidence in his political opponent's honesty.
Speaking during a visit to Dr. Nélio Mendonça Hospital, Albuquerque criticized what he termed a "culture of reporting everything to the authorities," arguing it would drive people out of politics. The Public Prosecutor's Office has requested the Assembly of the Republic lift Sousa's parliamentary immunity as part of an inquiry into the alleged undue receipt or offer of an advantage. Sousa disputes the allegations.
The case concerns a car rental agreement with Cassiano’s Rent a Car, Lda, signed in February 2025 when Sousa was mayor of Santa Cruz. Prosecutors allege the company waived the charge due to his position and functions, and that Sousa knowingly accepted an undue financial benefit. The alleged offense carries a prison sentence of one to five years.
