On Thursday, the Municipal Controller of São Paulo, Daniel Falcão, announced the dismissal of Rodolfo Marinho, the Deputy Secretary of the city's Tourism Department, underscoring suspicions of a 'possible hidden partnership' with businesswoman Nathalia Carolina da Silva Souza. This revelation comes from a power of attorney document that detailed Marinho's extensive administrative powers, allowing him to open accounts, hire and fire employees, and manage funds related to multimillion-dollar contracts with the São Paulo Turismo (SPTuris) company.

The document also indicates that Marinho was not only in a position of significant authority but also had business ties with Souza through a political consultancy firm they co-owned until shortly before Marinho took up the government position in 2022. This connection raises concerns about potential conflicts of interest and the integrity of contracting processes involving the city’s tourism initiatives.

Both Marinho's and SPTuris President Gustavo Pires's dismissals have been confirmed under the backdrop of increasing scrutiny over public administration in São Paulo. The scandal has implications for the credibility of local governance, particularly in how public funds and contracts are managed, stirring discussions about accountability among public officials and the necessity for transparent operational practices within city agencies.