Heads of Brazil’s three branches lash out on “putschist” riot
The heads of Brazil’s three branches of power released a joint note late this morning (Jan. 9) in defense of democracy. In the text, the authorities reject “the criminal acts of terrorism and vandalism by coup mongers.”
“We have come together so that institutional measures are taken under Brazilian law,” the note reads. The statement was published on the official page of President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva on social networks. “In defense of peace and democracy in our nation, we call on society to maintain serenity.”
In addition to President Lula, the note was signed by lower house speaker Arthur Lira; Senator Veneziano Vital do Rêgo, acting head of the Senate; and Justice Rosa Weber, head of the Supreme Court.
“The country must work to attain stability and respect, so that progress and social justice may be observed,” the text ends saying.
The authorities met early this morning on Monday (9) after the headquarters of the country’s Executive, Legislative, and Judiciary branches on Sunday afternoon (8) were invaded and ravaged by rioters who do not accept the result of last year’s elections and call for a military power grab in the country.
Also in attendance were Defense Minister José Múcio and the Minister Paulo Pimenta, head of the president’s Communication Secretariat, joined by Supreme Court Justices Luís Roberto Barroso and Dias Toffoli.
Governors
The leaders are expected to meet this afternoon with the governors of all Brazilian states. After yesterday’s riots, the governor of the Federal District was ousted by the Supreme Court. This morning, Ilka Teodoro, responsible for the central region of Brasília, left her post.
Also on Sunday evening (8), Lula visited the Planalto presidential palace and the Supreme Court headquarters. In his official account on a social network, he said that “the coup-mongers who promoted the destruction of public property in Brasília are being identified and will be punished.” Also yesterday afternoon, the president signed a decree ordering a federal intervention in the Public Security of the Federal District.
