Juliano Lopes of the Podemos party was elected the new president of the Belo Horizonte City Council (CMBH) for the 2025-2026 term on January 1, 2025. The voting concluded with Lopes's coalition securing 23 votes against 18 for the government-backed candidate, Bruno Miranda from the PDT.
At his swearing-in, Lopes highlighted the significance of collaboration among the 41 councilors, stating, "Now all of us, the 41 councilors, need to work for the city of Belo Horizonte." His intent is clear: to pursue initiatives focused on public welfare and dialogue among council members.
The election results were not just about numbers; they set the tone for the new legislative session. Lopes's coalition, including first vice-president Fernanda Pereira Altoé (Novo) and second vice-president Flávia Borja (PP), aims to address pressing community issues, starting with contesting the recent fare hike for public transport, which saw prices rise from R$5.25 to R$5.75. The new president emphasized the need to reverse such decisions affecting the city's residents.
Following Lopes's victory, council members across the political spectrum acknowledged the importance of maintaining open lines of communication. Irlan Melo of the Republicans stressed, "If the doors of dialogue remain closed, we will not be able to build the public policies the city so badly needs." This emphasis on dialogue reflects the council's desire to avoid the pitfalls of past administrations plagued by discord.
The election marked the beginning of challenges for the new administration, particularly with regards to the relationship between the mayor and the council. Vice-mayor Álvaro Damião, who took on the mayoral responsibilities amid health concerns from re-elected mayor Fuad Noman, expressed feelings of betrayal by allies after the electoral defeat. Damião lamented, "We have no time for amateurism, especially starting now with the city leadership."
Noman, who joined the swearing-in ceremony virtually due to health issues, received warm applause, even as the dynamics of power shifted within the council. His administration’s past struggles were evident as council members were prepared to use their numbers to confront the executive branch.
The newly configured council comprises members eager to challenge past governance styles and push for the city's best interests. Lopes's administration is expected to navigate complex waters, balancing collaboration and opposition, especially from factions wishing to investigate questionable practices — many fueled by frustrations from the previous administration's performance.
Despite his triumph, Lopes's victory has drawn mixed reactions. Comments about the potential instability of his leadership echo throughout the chamber, adding pressure to his role as president. Wanderley Porto (PRD), serving as the second secretary, promised assistance to Lopes, stating, "We will be available to rebuild bridges," indicating intentions to keep communication flowing between parties.
The election results signal change, with Lopes bringing to the forefront his experiences and relationships developed throughout his political career. His agenda includes focusing on health, education, and sports, intending to not only engage with councilors who supported him but also those from the opposing camp. This strategy could be pivotal as he confronts various issues, including another controversial fare hike and potential legislative investigations.
The political allegiances within the council will be tested as all eyes turn to how Lopes and the new leadership will operate against the backdrop of the mayor's obligation to shore up support during tumultuous times. The road is expected to be bumpy, but Lopes remains hopeful, stating earlier, "Let’s strengthen what unites us rather than what divides us."
This election sets the scene for what could be either productive collaborations or continuing strife. With the new directors of CMBH now firmly established, many anticipate the initiatives they will propose, their approach to sensitive issues, and how effectively they can govern amid potential obstacles. With so much at stake, the next stages of governance promise to be both tense and critically important for the residents of Belo Horizonte.