Bolsonaro says Federal Police act selectively against political rivals

Senator Flávio Bolsonaro has accused Brazil's Federal Police of engaging in selective investigations to politically harass opponents of President Lula's government. Bolsonaro, who is also the president of the PL party, stated that the Federal Police are mobilizing resources to target political adversaries while allegedly lacking the capacity to investigate allegations concerning Lula's son. He called for an end to this "persecution."

The Federal Police are currently investigating Valdemar Costa Neto, the president of the PL party, for allegedly directing parliamentary amendments despite not holding a congressional seat. Authorities claim funds were "forged" and diverted, with Costa Neto potentially being the final beneficiary. Approximately R$104 million has reportedly been paid out.

In response to the investigation, Supreme Federal Tribunal minister Flávio Dino ordered the seizure of R$119 million in assets belonging to Costa Neto. Bolsonaro defended Costa Neto, asserting that it is natural for a party president to engage in political activities with federal deputies. He expressed confidence that Costa Neto would provide satisfactory answers.

Costa Neto, through his lawyers, stated his surprise at Dino's decision, noting that the Prosecutor General's Office had opposed the precautionary measures. His legal team argued that the decision was based on "fragile premises, subjective inferences, and an undue criminalization of political-party activity."