The announcement was made by Miguel Albuquerque in statements to journalists, after being received, at his request, by the representative of the Republic, Ireneu Barreto, at the Palácio de São Lourenço, in Funchal.

Ireneu Barreto revealed that he accepted the resignation, but that it does not, for now, have an immediate effect.

"I'm considering the best time for it to take effect. It could be this week, but it could be only after the Budget is approved. At the moment, the date is open," he added.

The president of the Regional Government announced on Friday 26 January that he would resign from his position, two days after being accused, as part of a process investigating suspicions of corruption in Madeira which subsequently led to the arrest of the mayor of Funchal, Pedro Calado (PSD), and two businessmen linked to the construction and tourism sector.

According to article 62 of the Political-Administrative Statute of the Autonomous Region of Madeira, the dismissal of the executive implies "the presentation, by the president of the Regional Government, of the request for dismissal".

Madeira held elections for the Regional Legislative Assembly on September 24, so a possible dissolution by the President of the Republic can only occur after March 24, according to the law, which prevents parliaments from being dissolved for six months after elections.

“I accepted the president's resignation”, reiterated Ireneu Barreto, highlighting that Miguel Albuquerque did not give him any name to replace him in the leadership of the Regional Government, of the PSD/CDS-PP coalition, whose absolute majority in the Assembly Legislative support is supported by the PAN's only deputy, through a parliamentary advocacy agreement.

The representative of the Republic clarified, on the other hand, that he will only hear from the nine parties represented in the regional parliament – ​​PSD, PS, JPP, Chega, CDS-PP, PCP, IL, BE and PAN – after the executive is dismissed.

“I'm going to talk to the parties, I'm going to listen to what they have to tell me. I am open to any solution that is what I consider to be the greatest defence of Madeira’s interests,” he said.

Ireneu Barreto reiterated, however, that Miguel Albuquerque's dismissal does not have immediate effects.

The discussion of the Budget of the Autonomous Region of Madeira for 2024, with a global value of 2,238 million euros, the largest ever, is scheduled for the period between February 6th and 9th, but on February 7th the motions of censure will also be voted on to the Regional Government presented by the PS, the largest opposition party in Madeira, and Chega.

“I am available for anything, regardless of my interests, my main interest is of the Autonomous Region of Madeira”, stated Miguel Albuquerque at the end of the meeting with the representative of the Republic, also highlighting the importance of the Regional Budget for 2024 being approved, avoiding management by twelfths.

For the resigning chief executive, it is crucial to analyse the “fundamental interests of the region”, in addition to the current situation and political and media issues.

“I have given 30 years of service to Madeira, to the development of Madeira, and at this moment I have to continue, as I have done throughout my life, looking at the primary interests, which are families and companies”, he said.

Then adding “We cannot have a situation of economic and social instability here that would bring regression to the development of the region”.

Further reinforcing that “My availability, my detachment is total. I mean, right now, I’m not attached to the job at all.”

Miguel Albuquerque said, on the other hand, that he will remain President of the PSD/Madeira until a new congress is held, with no date yet set, but that he will not occupy the position of deputy in the Regional Legislative Assembly.