São Paulo Governor Tarcisio de Freitas has been forced into a humiliating apology after making shockingly inappropriate jokes about a deadly methanol poisoning crisis that has claimed 39 lives and left dozens permanently blind.
The conservative governor, speaking at a business event on Tuesday, made light of the ongoing public health emergency that has seen contaminated alcohol products circulate throughout the state.
'Tasteless and insensitive' remarks spark outrage
During his address, de Freitas joked about the methanol-contaminated alcohol, prompting immediate condemnation from health officials and victims' families. The governor's attempt at humour came as authorities continue to battle a crisis that has seen:
- 39 confirmed deaths from methanol poisoning
- Dozens of victims suffering permanent blindness
- Multiple hospitalisations across São Paulo state
- Widespread contamination of alcohol products
Health experts have described the governor's comments as "deeply irresponsible" and "potentially damaging to public trust" during a critical health emergency.
Rapid backlash forces swift apology
Facing immediate public fury, Governor de Freitas issued a formal apology on social media platform X, acknowledging his remarks were "inappropriate and tasteless".
In his apology statement, the governor expressed regret for his comments and extended sympathies to affected families, stating: "I deeply regret my comments and apologise to everyone, especially the families of the victims."
Ongoing public health crisis
The methanol contamination crisis represents one of Brazil's most severe public health emergencies in recent years. Authorities believe the contaminated products entered circulation through illicit alcohol production and distribution networks.
Methanol poisoning causes severe neurological damage, organ failure, and can be fatal even in small quantities. Survivors often suffer permanent visual impairment or complete blindness.
Brazilian health authorities continue to work around the clock to remove contaminated products from shelves and identify the sources of the deadly contamination.
