The President of the Regional Government of Madeira, Miguel Albuquerque, has downplayed suspicions against JPP deputy Filipe Sousa, who is indicted by the Public Prosecutor's Office for alleged improper receipt or offer of advantage. Albuquerque described the news as "nonsense" and stated that while Sousa is a political opponent, he is "certain he is an honest man".
Speaking on the sidelines of a visit to Dr. Nélio Mendonça Hospital, the regional leader criticized what he perceives as "hypocrisy" in how situations involving politicians are reported, questioning if any theft or undue advantage occurred. The Public Prosecutor's Office has requested the lifting of Filipe Sousa's parliamentary immunity following a case related to alleged events during his municipal term in Santa Cruz. Sousa denies the suspicions, claiming he fully paid a vehicle rental invoice.
