The Supreme Federal Court (STF) of Brazil has reached a final ruling on the murders of Marielle Franco, a city councillor from Rio de Janeiro, and her driver Anderson Gomes, almost eight years after the crime. The brutal killings took place on March 14, 2018, and the court's decision was delivered on February 25, 2026. Despite the possibility of an appeal, the chances for a reversal of the verdict are slim. The first panel of the STF unanimously sentenced the two brothers, Domingos and Chiquinho Brazão, identified as the masterminds behind the crime, to 76 years and 3 months in prison. Additionally, Rivaldo Barbosa, a former head of the Civil Police, received an 18-year sentence for obstruction of justice and corruption.

This lengthy judicial process highlights the systemic issues within Brazil's justice system, where delayed justice is a recurring theme. However, in this high-profile case, the delay is particularly egregious due to the significance of Marielle Franco’s life and work. Franco was a prominent advocate for social justice, particularly concerning the rights of women, Afro-Brazilians, and marginalized communities. Her murder sparked national and international outrage, leading to widespread calls for justice and reform in the Brazilian judicial and political systems.

The resolution of the Marielle Franco case is more than just a legal verdict; it represents an important moment in Brazil's struggle against violence and impunity. The verdict acts as a critical reminder of the societal challenges that remain in addressing political crimes in Brazil and serves as a rallying point for activists who continue to fight for justice and the protection of human rights in the country.