Silvio Almeida, the former Minister of Human Rights and Citizenship, has denied all allegations of sexual harassment made by Anielle Franco, the Minister of Racial Equality. He claims both were victims of political intrigue, stating, "Both Anielle and I were ensnared in this filth." This statement was made during an exclusive interview with Adriana Negreiros for UOL, five months after his dismissal.
Despite the serious allegations and the opening of federal inquiries, Almeida expressed no disappointment with President Lula, asserting, "Lula was led to an unavoidable situation. He had no alternative." Almeida's first testimony will be conducted via videoconference to the Federal Police on Tuesday, revisiting claims against him for the first time since his ousting.
Almeida insists he did not know Franco during the government transition period. He claimed, "We did not interact during the transition... If we met, it was briefly in the corridors or when leaving the Cultural Center of Banco do Brasil, where I was with advisors. He refuted Franco's assertion of harassment and remarked on her conduct during meetings, portraying her as 'extremely impolite' during discussions related to airport racism.
Adding weight to his denials, Almeida dismissed more recent allegations from former students as shocking, saying, "I was friends with Isabel for years... Suddenly, she appears, declaring herself the 15th victim—how can one quantify such claims?" He emphasized the difficulty of comprehending why women would fabricate such statements.
Almeida became aware of Franco's claims in September 2023, which he initially believed were unfounded, noting the sensationalized nature of accusations perpetuated by the media, especially influenced by movements like Me Too. He felt the ensuing gossip turned politically driven and damaging, stating, "Gossip became political weapons.” He alluded to potential pressures from organizations like Me Too Brasil, which had allegedly contacted journalists with accusations before official procedures were initiated.
After the public emergence of allegations, Almeida articulated feelings of resentment and humiliation, insisting, "None of the allegations refer to rape. Those claims come from malicious intent." He elaborated on how hurtful and distressing the situation has been for him, pointing out the psychological consequences and affirming, "All who have spoken of me this way will be held accountable."
Recalled meetings indicated contentious professional relations, particularly noting one where disagreements arose around handling racism issues at airports. Almeida detailed, "A troubling atmosphere developed, and he perceived Franco trying to undermine his credibility among key circles, implying her motivation was to diminish his standing within influential factions of the legal and academic communities through orchestrated intrigue."
Political manipulations were underscored as Almeida expressed concerns about how important social causes can be exploited for ulterior motives, stating, "When important causes are hijacked for power and money, it worries me." He mentioned receiving unsolicited messages from the president of Me Too Brasil prior to the crisis, feeling the contacts were inappropriate and politically influenced.
He fielded questions about whether he had faced disappointment from Lula, asserting the president's hands were tied, and emphatically stated he would not apologize for actions he did not commit. The ex-minister concluded with his deep indignation at the situation, declaring the defamatory nature of the accusations is something he cannot overlook, mentioning, "This was deeply troubling, and I'm angry. Those who have malignantly labeled me will face consequences."
The allegations against Almeida have triggered significant media scrutiny and fed public interest amid discussions on power dynamics, harassment, and the challenges facing individuals caught up within the political fray.