The governor of Ceará, Elmano de Freitas, has officially changed the terminology used to describe police officers suspected of violence. Instead of being labeled as 'criminals', these officers will now be considered 'intervenors' until investigations are concluded. This decision is seen as an attempt to appeal to a more conservative voter base, especially in light of the upcoming reelection campaign amid strong competition from other candidates like Ciro Gomes and potential challengers from within Freitas' own party.

This new classification has sparked significant backlash from civil society organizations and the political party PSOL, with critics arguing that this move could exacerbate institutional violence. They contend that changing the language around police accountability may further diminish the seriousness of violent actions taken by law enforcement, as the terminology implies a level of legitimacy to their actions that critics believe is unwarranted. The implications of this decision could lead to an erosion of public trust regarding police accountability during a tense political climate.

Freitas' remarks on social media following the announcement underline the contentious nature of policing in Brazil, particularly in regions suffering from high levels of violence. The ongoing debate on law enforcement's role in society highlights the delicate balance between maintaining public security and protecting civilian rights. As Brazil approaches elections, this policy shift reveals the intersection of governance, law enforcement, and electoral strategy, potentially influencing how policing reforms are perceived by the electorate and civil society at large.