Government fears probe into Lula ally could aid Bolsonaro's defense

Allies of Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva are concerned that a Federal Police operation targeting Senator Jaques Wagner, the government's leader in the Senate, could inadvertently strengthen the defense of Flávio Bolsonaro. Bolsonaro, son of former President Jair Bolsonaro, was reportedly caught in conversations with ex-banker Daniel Vorcaro regarding funding for a film about his father.

The operation against Wagner, a key figure in Lula's government, has raised suspicions of payments linked to Banco Master, the same institution connected to Vorcaro. This creates a potential defense strategy for Bolsonaro, allowing him to argue that political figures across the spectrum are entangled in the scandal. The government is reportedly awaiting President Lula's direction on how to navigate this delicate situation. Some within the administration believe Wagner might offer to resign his leadership post to protect the government's image.

President Lula, recently returned from the G7 summit in France, is expected to reiterate his support for operations initiated during his administration and seek explanations from Wagner. Private meetings between Lula and Wagner had previously addressed reports of the senator's relationship with Augusto Lima, a former associate of Vorcaro. Wagner had reportedly reassured the president, stating his non-involvement and suggesting that any questionable commercial dealings occurred during the Bolsonaro administration.

Ministers close to Lula expressed surprise at revelations linking Wagner's family to Augusto Lima. These allies acknowledge that Flávio Bolsonaro is likely to leverage the case, arguing that the scandal implicates politicians of various affiliations. Éden Valadares, the PT's communication secretary, preemptively defended Wagner, criticizing attempts to equate the situations and accusing Bolsonaro of desperation and dishonesty. He highlighted that Banco Master received authorization under the Bolsonaro government and that Flávio Bolsonaro maintained close ties with Vorcaro.

Despite the controversy, some allies believe the operation may not significantly impact the gubernatorial race in Bahia, as PT's rivals also had connections with Banco Master. It is noted that Lula had previously kept Wagner in his leadership role despite earlier controversies, such as the rejection of Jorge Messias for the Supreme Federal Court.

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Whoever authorized Banco Master was the Bolsonaro government. Whoever is close to Daniel Vorcaro, visited him even after his arrest and considers him a 'brother' is Flávio Bolsonaro. Whoever received millions of reais from this scheme was the Bolsonaro family. The attempt to equate these relationships and falsely create the idea that the BolsoMaster scandal equally affects all political fields in Brazil is innocuous and reveals the degree of desperation of Flávio, who was caught lying, lost the little credibility he had, and sees his campaign dwindling day by day.