Army ruling opens dangerous precedent ahead of 2022 race

General Eduardo Pazuello broke military rules by taking part in a pro-Bolsonaro rally — but escaped punishment. The ramifications could be severe for Brazilian democracy

President Jair Bolsonaro greets General Paulo Sérgio Nogueira, the new Army Commander. Foto: Marcos Corrêa/PR — President Jair Bolsonaro greets General Paulo Sérgio Nogueira, the new Army Commander.Foto: Marcos Corrêa/PR

Jun 07, 2021 11:41 4 min read

Last week, the Brazilian Army chose not to punish former Health Minister and active general Eduardo Pazuello for attending a rally in support of President Jair Bolsonaro at the end of May, during which he made a brief speech, hailing Mr. Bolsonaro as a “good man.” Military officers are strictly forbidden from politicking, and Mr. Pazuello’s behavior certainly warranted punishment. That he got off scot-free is yet another blow to Brazilian democracy, which could have serious consequences for the 2022 presidential election.

Article 45 of Brazil’s military statute forbids active-duty officers from taking part in “any type of public...

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Army ruling opens dangerous precedent ahead of 2022 race

General Eduardo Pazuello broke military rules by taking part in a pro-Bolsonaro rally — but escaped punishment. The ramifications could be severe for Brazilian democracy

Access all of The Brazilian Report

Start your 7-day free trial.

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