Eduardo Paes, the Mayor of Rio de Janeiro, is officially leaving his position on Friday to pursue a candidacy for Governor of Rio de Janeiro in the upcoming elections. In a ceremony scheduled for 3 PM at the Palácio da Cidade in the Botafogo neighborhood, Paes will pass on his responsibilities to his deputy, Eduardo Cavaliere. This move aligns with his political aspirations as he previously expressed intentions to step down from the mayoral role in 2026, despite having stated last year that he would not resign immediately.

Throughout his tenure, which spans four consecutive terms, Paes has prioritized setting goals for the city’s future, covering various essential areas such as transportation, security, and infrastructure, as reflected in his recent speeches and strategic plans for the period 2025-2028. This transitional phase will also see Cavaliere assume leadership during a critical time as the city prepares for major upcoming events, including the New Year's celebrations, for which arrangements are already being discussed.

Paes's departure reflects a shift in the political landscape of Rio de Janeiro, as local and national figures prepare for the 2024 elections. His leadership has significantly impacted city policies, and his move could set the stage for future developments in state governance. The transition is a pivotal moment for both Paes and Cavaliere, as they navigate the complexities of city management amid electoral campaigns and public expectations.