Brazil: The Supreme Court convicts two politicians for ordering the murder of councilor Marielle Franco
The Brazilian Supreme Court has found two politicians guilty of ordering the murder of councilor Marielle Franco in 2018, a case that shocked the nation.
The Brazilian Supreme Court has officially convicted former deputy Chiquinho Brazao and his brother Domingos for their involvement in ordering the assassination of Marielle Franco, a prominent councilor and activist. The ruling was unanimous among the four judges presiding over the case, who will soon determine the sentencing. This case, which has garnered national attention, highlights the dangers faced by political activists in Brazil, particularly those from marginalized communities.
Marielle Franco, a 38-year-old councilor known for her advocacy for social justice, was tragically murdered on March 14, 2018, while driving in central Rio de Janeiro. Alongside her, her driver was also killed in the attack, triggering widespread outrage and protests across the country. The Supreme Court's decision underscores the ongoing struggle against political violence and the need for accountability in Brazil, where violence against public figures, especially women and people of color, remains a pressing issue.
Carmen Lúcia Antunes, the presiding judge, indicated that the Brazão brothers led a criminal organization involved in unlawful land occupation and exploitation in poor communities in Rio. This verdict not only seeks justice for Marielle Franco but also serves as a critical statement against impunity in the political system, calling for an end to the culture of violence that has plagued Brazil's governance and society.