Wednesday, January 11, 2023, we only see her. Applauded by a crowd of political leaders, Anielle Franco descends the spiral ramp that leads to the noble hall of the Planalto, the presidential palace in Brasilia. For her inauguration, the new Minister of Racial Equality appears solemn, wrapped in a multicolored dress made of Beninese fabric. In these places, devastated three days earlier by far-right rioters, the moment is highly symbolic.
The head of state, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, knows it. Present, wanted to give this scene a special shine. “Anielle” is none other than the sister of Marielle Franco, icon of the left, black and leftist municipal councilor of Rio de Janeiro, murdered on March 14, 2018 along with her driver Anderson Gomes. “I have dedicated every minute of my life to fighting for justice, defending memory and growing my sister’s legacy.”She insists moved in her speech.
Almost two years later, “Anielle” (as everyone calls her) has not given up her fight. Meanwhile, at 40 years old, she has become one of the most popular members of the government, according to the magazine’s ranking. Time as one of the 100 most influential people of the new generation. “But I am sure that, without my sister’s death, I would not be here today.”remembers the young minister.
On Wednesday, October 30, a crucial event took place, both for Brazil and for her: the beginning of the trial against Ronnie Lessa and Elcio de Queiroz, former police officers and alleged murderers of Marielle Franco, finally sentenced on the 31st. October to 78 and 59 years in prison. “From the beginning we believed in a response from justice, no matter how minimal.”trusts the minister.
Marielle, who has become an icon
With a high waist and square shoulders, this former volleyball player impresses with her height and relaxation. From Rio, where she grew up, Anielle inherited the natural informality, directness and typical accent, where each “s” becomes a “ch” sound. He carefully chose the place for the interview, in an association center, at the foot of the Providencia favela, the oldest in Rio. “Power has not changed me in any way. I’m still the same”says this woman who also grew up in a poor neighborhood.
Paralyzed under the mandate of Jair Bolsonaro (2019-2023), the investigation into the murder of Marielle Franco experienced a sudden acceleration in March. The brothers Domingos and Joao Francisco Inácio Brazao (known as “Chiquinho” Brazao), advisor to the Court of Accounts and federal deputy of Rio respectively, as well as commissioner Rivaldo Barbosa, former head of the local civil police, were arrested on suspicion of having used Elcio de Queiroz and Ronnie Lessa, who had become hitmen, to assassinate the activist. His trial could also take place in 2024.
You have 61.63% of this article left to read. The rest is reserved for subscribers.
