We’re covering why São Paulo has avoided a full-scale lockdown that is well overdue. Brazil’s growing Covid-19 curve. And the impacts of the pandemic on private banks.
Avoiding lockdown, São Paulo grapples with rushed solutions
Many experts have praised the synergy between São Paulo Mayor Bruno Covas and Governor João Doria in fighting the coronavirus. On one crucial topic, however, they are not in sync: should a full-scale lockdown be enforced, or not? Mr. Covas is certainly worried about a healthcare collapse in the city. After all, São Paulo has to deal with its 12 million population and the residents of its wider metropolitan area who depend on its public services. But, as far as Governor Doria is concerned, there is “no lockdown on the horizon” for Brazil’s most populous city.
- While Mr. Covas does have the power to place the city under lockdown, his 6,000-strong municipal guard would be unable to enforce restrictive measures. He would require the acquiescence of Governor Doria who has jurisdiction over the police forces in the state.
Why the resistance? President Jair Bolsonaro is not the only one over-politicizing the pandemic. Mr. Doria, unabashed in his hopes to run for president in 2022, is...