What happened afterwards? See bottom
NOT ALL is corruption in Brazilian politics. The other side of the coin persists here also, even though the chances it hits the headlines does not obey the 50-50 probabilistic principle.
Mr. Marcelo Freixo has sensed he was likely to make one of those rare - but absolutely disturbing - headlines where the good succumb. He, with family, is leaving his country - Brazil - today (1/11/2011). He has received an invitation by Anistia Internacional, which is Amnesty Brazilian arm, to go to Europe, in face of serious concerns due to an increase in threats of murder over the past few weeks.
It is not for good, the politician has stated, adding that he will be back within a month, when he expects that adjustments to his security will have been made.
An unique politics resumé
Mr. Freixo is young (44) and handsome. His work as head of the 2008 Parliament Investigation Commission (CPI) on Milicias (police staff in organized crime) has drawn also the attention of acclaimed film director Mr. José Padilha, leading to the character Fraga in Tropa de Elite 2, in line for a possible Oscar nomination next year. On running for his legislative post, popularity stemming from the screen helped his being the second best voted in the state of Rio de Janeiro. Presently, Mr. Freixo, pre-candidate for mayor of the city of Rio, is ahead of another CPI, this time on Armament. He has duly declared that the issue that now makes he leave the country is not a personal problem, but one of Brazil as a state.
Public Security Secretary retorted, after the decision to flee had been made, 'Mr. Feixo can have all the security he wants.'
He was surely not the least impressed by such. Judge Patricia Acioli was the target of 11 shots in front of her house in Niteroi, near Rio, last August, and Mr. Freixo's own brother, Renato, was shot dead about five years ago.
Despite, there have emerged allegations that he is just departing as a step in a political marketing plan. Again, Mr. Freixo has made it plain, 'Whoever thinks that is the case, take over my place.'
I bet the place will remain open. Wishful thinking: May he return, to be save, for the good of my hometown, and ultimately the country.
Mariangela Pedro
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Mr. Freixo returned to Brazil after spending 15 days in Spain. He gave a long interview soon thereafter, stating he was to discuss matters with the governor of Rio de Janeiro. And the topic died. May it is only the topic to die...
