First Lady Rosângela da Silva, known as Janja, made headlines when she announced her decision not to participate in the carnival parade held at the Sambódromo on Sunday, March 15. Instead, she chose to watch the parade from the municipal box alongside President Lula, who was being honored by the samba school Acadêmicos de Niterói. Janja's decision, as stated by her advisory team, was influenced by concerns over potential persecution that could arise from the homage, particularly towards the president and the samba group. The advisory team highlighted that despite having the legal approval to participate, safety concerns were paramount.

The week leading up to the parade was rife with pressure on both the government and Janja due to the upcoming tribute to President Lula. The opposition parties had been active in their criticisms and even sought intervention from the TSE (Tribunal Superior Eleitoral) to prevent the parade from taking place due to the controversies surrounding it. This political tension posed a significant backdrop to the event, highlighting the current polarized climate in Brazilian politics, where even cultural events can become points of contention.

By opting out of the parade, Janja not only positioned herself as a supportive spouse but also sent a broader message about the challenges and risks faced by the current administration. Her choice reflects the intricate link between culture and politics in Brazil, where events like the carnival are not solely festive occasions but are also infused with political significance. This situation underscores the delicate balance that public figures must navigate and the ongoing scrutiny that accompanies political leadership in Brazil.