Pedro Calado was one of the most awaited names to take the pulpit at the PSD Regional Congress, which takes place today and tomorrow at the Madeira Tecnopolo.
Strongly applauded, the former Mayor, who is returning to the Political Commission, confessed that he missed political life. “I confess that I missed it. I confess that this is my home, this is where I feel good, it is among you, and it is for you.”
Yet, the former Mayor did not shy away from talking about his arrest in January 2024. “Political arrests were made based on partisan political objectives,” he said, highlighting at a certain point in his speech that the difficulties he went through made him stronger.
“I accepted to be here today once again because I want to continue to fight for our PSD, for our Madeira, and for the Madeirans. I felt today that it was time to speak. For two years I have been silent,” but they were years of reflection, he said, considering that what was done to him was unfair. The member of the political commission clarified that his return is not synonymous with “any pretension anywhere.”
Throughout the speech, the valorisation of Madeira’s identity and the defence of regional autonomy were also highlighted. Pedro Calado insists that Madeira has been an example at a national level, both in terms of economy and tourism, suggesting that the success of the region has generated misunderstanding and even external attacks. In this context, he called for the union of Madeirans and the need to defend the region with pride and firmness.
Internally, the speech also had a warning tone. The Social Democrat leader criticised behaviours that he considers harmful to the party, such as internal divisions, opportunism, and lack of political courage. He argued that the PSD should be a space of loyalty, discipline, and collective work, where common interests prevail over individual ambitions.
Another relevant point was the call for a greater capacity for reform at the national level. Pedro Calado expressed concern, about what he considers to be a paralysis of the country, defending structural reforms and criticising the influence of minorities and judicial obstacles in governance.
Concluding, he left a message of hope and resilience. The difficulties faced, he said, made him stronger and more aware, now serving as an example for the new generations. The speech ended with a clear call for unity, preparation for the future, and the strengthening of the PSD’s identity as a central political force in Madeira.
Samantha Gannon
info at madeira-weekly.com
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