The article is an open letter addressed to the Mayor of Machico, criticizing a recent decision by the municipal executive. The council is proceeding with the removal of a pedestrian zone in Largo da Praça to create parking spaces, apparently at the request of or by decision of two commercial establishments that sell fish and beer in that area.
The author of the letter, identified only as a resident, questions the priority given by the municipal executive. He argues that one of the main objectives of any council should be to create conditions to improve the quality of life of the population, and that the decision taken appears to confuse the interests of the respective business owners with the general interest.
The letter also alerts to the negative impact on accessibility. Currently, elderly people or those in wheelchairs who wish to circulate between Largo da Praça and the promenade are forced to go around the fort, worsening conditions for those with reduced mobility. The author considers that this decision reveals weakness in the defense of residents' interests.
The resident concludes the letter with a political note, emphasizing that a large portion of the customers of these establishments do not vote in Machico, while he and others harmed are local voters. The response, he states, will come at the ballot box in three years.
