Brazil's federal police have formally accused former human rights minister Silvio Almeida of sexual misconduct, marking a significant development in a case that has rocked President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva's administration.
Police Investigation and Political Fallout
The federal police completed their investigation and submitted formal accusations against Almeida on Friday, according to a police official who spoke on Saturday. The official requested anonymity as they weren't authorised to discuss the case publicly.
Prosecutors must now determine whether to press formal charges against the former minister. If they proceed, Brazil's Supreme Court will review the case and decide whether to dismiss the allegations or allow them to proceed to trial.
Almeida, who served as Lula's human rights minister, was dismissed from his position last September following allegations brought forward by MeToo Brazil, an organisation supporting women victims of sexual violence.
Victims and Political Context
The case gained additional significance when Anielle Franco, Brazil's minister for racial equality, was identified as one of the alleged victims. Franco publicly supported Lula's decision to remove Almeida from office.
Franco entered politics following the murder of her sister, Marielle Franco, a Rio de Janeiro councilwoman whose 2018 killing attracted international attention and condemnation.
Another accuser, Isabel Rodrigues, a professor in São Paulo state, came forward last year alleging that Almeida sexually assaulted her. On Saturday, she expressed her feelings on Instagram, stating: "There's still a long way to go before effective justice in this case."
She added: "As a victim I have something to say: don't let go of the hands of women."
Broader Context of Violence Against Women
The allegations against a former human rights minister highlight Brazil's ongoing struggle with gender-based violence. More than one in three Brazilian women experienced sexual or gender-based violence during a one-year period, according to a 2025 report by the Brazilian Forum on Public Safety.
This figure represents the highest level recorded since the think tank began collecting data in 2017. The report further indicates that all forms of violence against women have increased since monitoring began.
Almeida, a Black law professor, had been one of the most prominent voices in Lula's government campaigning against racism. His fall from grace represents a significant blow to the administration's credibility on social justice issues.
Local media outlets reported the formal police accusations on Friday. Almeida hasn't commented since the latest development, though he has previously denied any wrongdoing.
