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BRASILIA (Multibagger) - Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva on Friday fired Human Rights Minister Silvio Almeida following accusations that he sexually harassed several women, including another cabinet minister.
"The president considers it unsustainable to keep the minister in office considering the nature of the accusations of sexual harassment," Lula's office said in a statement.
A police investigation has been opened, it added.
Almeida, an activist for the legal defense of minority rights, denied the accusations in a video on his social media, saying they were "absurd lies" and baseless.
One of the women who was allegedly harassed is the prominent Racial Equality Minister Anielle Franco, local news outlet Metropoles reported, citing 14 people, including government officials and friends of hers.
Franco, also a human rights activist, declined to comment when asked about the report. Her sister, former Rio de Janeiro city council member Marielle Franco, was murdered in 2018 together with her driver in a case that was reported internationally.
"Someone who harasses won't stay in the government," Lula said earlier in an interview to a local radio station.
Both Franco and Almeida have been in the cabinet since the beginning of Lula's current term in 2023 and are seen in Brazil as important human rights activists.
Analysis:
This breaking news story sheds light on the serious issue of sexual harassment in government offices, even at the highest levels of power. The decision to fire the Human Rights Minister sends a strong message that such behavior will not be tolerated, regardless of one's position.
It also highlights the importance of holding public officials accountable for their actions and the impact of such scandals on the credibility of human rights activists in Brazil. This case serves as a reminder that no one is above the law, and everyone should be treated with respect and dignity.
Ultimately, this event underscores the ongoing struggle for gender equality and the need for continued efforts to create a safe and inclusive work environment for all individuals. It is a call to action for all organizations to take proactive measures to prevent and address sexual harassment in the workplace.