Feb 24 • 21:56 UTC 🇧🇷 Brazil Folha (PT)

Trial of accused in the death of Mother Bernadete is postponed in Bahia

The trial of two individuals accused of murdering quilombola leader Maria Bernadete Pacífico Moreira, known as Mother Bernadete, has been postponed to April 13 in Salvador, Brazil.

The trial of two individuals accused of murdering Maria Bernadete Pacífico Moreira, also known as Mother Bernadete, was initially set to begin on Tuesday, October 24, in Salvador, Bahia. However, the session was halted due to a request from the newly appointed defense team for one or both defendants, though the identities of the new lawyers were not disclosed. The postponement was requested late in the afternoon on Monday, October 23, and the court set a new date for the trial to commence on April 13 at the same time and location. The case has drawn attention given Mother Bernadete's status as a leader of the quilombola community, which is historically marginalized in Brazil. While the judicial system's handling of the case is crucial, the lack of detailed information regarding the defense's change raises concern over transparency. Furthermore, inquiries made to the Bahia Court of Justice regarding specifics of the defense change were left unanswered, demonstrating potential issues within the communication channels of the legal system. The postponement of the trial not only delays justice for the community and the victim’s family but also highlights broader questions regarding the legal proceedings surrounding crimes against marginalized leaders in Brazil. The trial is of particular importance to the quilombola community and advocates, who may see this case as part of a larger struggle for recognition and justice against systemic inequalities prevalent in the country.

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