On Tuesday, May 6, 2025, Arthur Cunha Lima Filho took to social media to refute the rumors surrounding the death of his father, Arthur Cunha Lima, a former deputy and ex-advisor to the Court of Accounts of the State of Paraíba (TCE-PB). In his post, he confirmed that his father is still alive, albeit in serious condition in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of the Unimed Hospital in João Pessoa.
The confusion began earlier that day when Fábio Nogueira, the president of TCE-PB, mistakenly announced the death of Arthur Cunha Lima during a session at the Court. This erroneous information quickly spread, leading to a wave of condolences and tributes in the Legislative Assembly of Paraíba, where lawmakers had already begun paying their respects to the supposed deceased.
Shortly after the announcement, Nogueira realized his mistake and promptly retracted his statement, acknowledging the error. The incident caused considerable embarrassment among the councilors and deputies present during the sessions. Arthur Cunha Lima, who has been hospitalized for months, is in delicate condition, according to his family. He has been separated from the TCE since 2019, following his involvement in the controversial Operation Calvário, which investigated corruption within the state.
Arthur Cunha Lima is expected to retire compulsorily in December of this year when he turns 75 years old. His family has been proactive in addressing the situation, emphasizing the need for respect regarding their father's health and requesting that all updates on his condition come directly from them.
This isn't the first time Arthur's health has been a topic of concern. In 2017, he underwent surgery to remove a brain tumor, which has left him with ongoing health issues. In 2021, he was removed from the TCE amid suspicions related to the corruption scheme under investigation in Operation Calvário, a move that significantly impacted his career.
As news of his supposed death circulated, the Legislative Assembly's president, Adriano Galdino, also mistakenly commented on the situation, leading to the suspension of plenary activities in honor of the former president of the Assembly. His comments, along with those from other officials, initially fueled the confusion surrounding Arthur's health.
During the session on May 6, various councilors expressed their sorrow over the alleged passing of Arthur, with some even sharing personal anecdotes about their time working with him. One of the more emotional responses came from councilor André Carlo Torres, who noted that he had not been able to contact Arthur since 2019 due to a court order that prohibited communication between Arthur and the councilors.
Torres remarked, "For five years, I have been barred from seeing him due to a precautionary measure that isolates him from all of us. All of this because of an investigation that, to this day, has not led to any formal charges. Arthur has been distanced from our community, with his reputation tarnished, and now we find ourselves unable to say goodbye." This poignant reflection highlights the personal toll that the ongoing investigation and health issues have taken on Arthur and those around him.
As the day unfolded, the family reiterated that Arthur Cunha Lima remains alive but is facing serious health challenges. They have also initiated a blood donation campaign to support his medical treatment, underscoring the gravity of his condition and the community's support for him during this difficult time.
The incorrect reports about his death have sparked a conversation about the responsibilities of public officials and the media in disseminating information, particularly concerning sensitive topics such as health and mortality. The family has called for a more cautious approach in reporting and for respect during this challenging period.
Arthur Cunha Lima's legacy is complex, marked by his long service in public office and the controversies that have surrounded him. His career has been characterized by both significant achievements and serious allegations, leaving a lasting impact on the political landscape of Paraíba.
As he continues to fight for his health, the community watches closely, hoping for a positive outcome. The family’s plea for privacy and respect resonates in the hearts of many, reminding everyone of the human side of politics and the importance of compassion in times of crisis.
With the TCE-PB's session suspended and the Legislative Assembly grappling with the fallout from the misinformation, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the impact of rumors in the age of social media.
