Valéria Fortes was dismissed from her position as the municipal secretary for Women's Rights in Lorena following her daughter's femicide and claimed political persecution as a reason for her dismissal.
The City Hall of Lorena has dismissed Valéria Fortes, who was serving as the municipal secretary for Women's Rights. Her dismissal, communicated through an official note on Monday, October 16, follows the tragic case of her daughter, Elda Mariel Aquino Fortes, who was brutally murdered by her ex-boyfriend in March 2024, a crime that garnered widespread media attention. The accused has been charged with femicide and remains in custody while awaiting trial.
Valéria Fortes was appointed to her position just two weeks after her daughter's death, indicating the immediate impact of the crime on her personal life and professional responsibilities. However, the city administration has stated that her dismissal was a result of an evaluation of her handling of the department and other related issues. Valéria has publicly claimed that her dismissal is rooted in political persecution, suggesting that the political dynamics in the municipality may play a role in her exit from the office.
This incident raises important questions regarding the treatment of women's rights officials and the support systems in place for the families of victims of gender-based violence. The decision to dismiss a key figure in advocating for women’s rights, particularly one who has experienced such a personal tragedy, could impact public perceptions of the city's commitment to addressing violence against women and supporting survivors' families. The circumstances surrounding Valéria's role and her subsequent dismissal will likely be a focal point of discussion in Lorena moving forward.
