From quackery to genocide: Brazil Senate Covid-19 committee may recommend indicting Bolsonaro for 11 crimes

RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL – The latest draft of the final report to be voted on by the Senate Covid-19 CPI (Investigative Committee) will propose the indictment of President Jair Bolsonaro for at least 11 crimes: quackery; incitement to crime; forgery of a private document; malfeasance; genocide of indigenous people; epidemics resulting in death; violation of preventive health measures; irregular use of public funds; crime against humanity; crime of violation of social rights; and incompatibility with dignity, honor, and decorum of the position.

Senator Renan Calheiros’ draft is expected to be read on October 19. If passed, the report will be forwarded to the Federal Prosecutor’s Office (MPF). It will be up to Prosecutor General Augusto Aras to decide if a formal complaint will be filed with the Judiciary. In addition to the President, another 40 people will be indicted. The lists and names may change until the committee vote.

The crimes attributed to Bolsonaro may carry a sentence of over 20 years:

– Epidemic resulting in death: the federal government delayed the purchase of Covid-19 vaccines and prevented thousands of Brazilians from being immunized earlier. The measure could have saved lives. Furthermore, the government chose to emphasize early treatment with a proven ineffective drug, rather than protecting the population.

– Violation of preventive health measure: the President refused to wear a personal protective mask when meeting with supporters and subordinates. With this conduct, Bolsonaro disrespected state and Federal District laws.

– Quackery: considered to be criminal conduct that threatens public health. It entails behavior that promotes the cure of an illness by secret or inviable means. “The quack boasts a cure, with no scientific backing,” the report will state. Bolsonaro has been an unconditional advocate of early treatment and, in particular, of the use of hydroxychloroquine.

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