Brazil’s Presidential Ethics Committee is set to investigate allegations of sexual misconduct against Human Rights Minister Silvio Almeida. Additionally, Federal Police Chief Andrei Rodrigues has indicated that an inquiry into the matter will be initiated.
Me Too Brazil, a group dedicated to assisting victims of sexual violence, confirmed to media sources that several women reached out with claims of sexual harassment against Almeida. The news site Metrópoles spoke to 14 individuals knowledgeable about the allegations.
Among the accusers, only one has been publicly identified: Anielle Franco, the Minister for Racial Equality. She has not made any public statements confirming or denying the allegations.
The presidential office released a statement acknowledging the seriousness of the claims and affirmed that they are being addressed swiftly and rigorously, in line with the urgency that cases involving potential violence against women demand.
First Lady Rosângela da Silva shared a photo with Franco on Instagram, which led many to speculate that Almeida may be exiting his government post. This impression was reinforced when President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva remarked that it is “not possible” for anyone accused of sexual misconduct to remain in government.
Reports suggest Almeida is scheduled to meet with President Lula to discuss his future today.
The Women’s Rights Ministry has expressed support for the ongoing investigations into Almeida.
In response to the allegations, Almeida vehemently denied all claims, stating, “Once again, a group is attempting to erase and diminish our existence, attributing to me the behavior they exhibit. In doing so, Brazil, the human rights agenda, racial equality, and the Brazilian populace are the ones who suffer.”
He plans to seek legal action for clarification from Me Too Brazil regarding the accusations. Almeida emphasized the need for a thorough investigation of all claims, asserting that these inquiries must be based on credible evidence rather than fabrications.
The Human Rights Ministry operates with one of the smallest budgets in the government. Earlier this year, Almeida faced criticism for not allocating resources to his identified priorities, including the protection of marginalized youth and the promotion of LGBTQ rights.
Despite challenges, his department recently celebrated the revival of a commission focusing on political disappearances.