This week, the congressional investigation into the government’s response to Covid-19. After an underwhelming climate summit speech, lawmakers seek to increase environmental oversight on President Bolsonaro.
Let the Covid hearings begin
The Senate scheduled for tomorrow the first sitting of the so-called Covid hearings, which will investigate the government’s response to the pandemic. Elections of the committee’s chairman and rapporteur will be made official, though the appointments have been agreed upon ahead of time.
- Chairman: Senator Omar Aziz. Considered an independent, Mr. Aziz has made some criticism of the government’s handling of the coronavirus crisis. However, he has played down President Jair Bolsonaro’s personal responsibility for the debacle.
- Rapporteur: Senator Renan Calheiros. One of the savviest politicians in Congress, Mr. Calheiros has a score to settle with the administration. Two years ago, Mr. Bolsonaro worked behind the scenes to block his election as Senate President. Moreover, Mr. Calheiros is likely to move attention away from state governors and mayors and focus the investigation on the federal government. His son, Renan Filho, is the governor of his home state of Alagoas.
Why it matters. The Covid hearings will last for between 90 and 180 days, which are likely to be filled...