President Lula of Brazil has ordered that government ministers and aides refrain from participating in a Carnival parade held in his honor at the Sambódromo in Rio de Janeiro. This decision has been communicated to the government team even after the Superior Electoral Court unanimously rejected proposals for early electoral propaganda against Lula and his party. Ministers wishing to attend the event must cover their own travel and accommodation expenses, reflecting an effort to separate government affairs from the festive event.

Interestingly, the first lady, Rosângela Lula da Silva, also known as Janja, is permitted to partake in the parade as a highlight alongside the samba school's float, although she does not hold any official government position. This exception underscores Lula's intent to maintain a distinction between political figures and personal engagements, particularly during a period that is culturally significant yet can be politically contentious.

The announcement comes amid broader discussions about the role of public office holders in maintaining decorum during festive events, especially when it pertains to the electoral atmosphere. The proactive measure to avoid any official agenda conjoining with Carnival festivities indicates an attempt to navigate potential political pitfalls, as concerns had recently been raised regarding the implications of government participation in such events in an election year.