Government probes into possible corruption act that surround the acceptance of Luis Inacio Lula da Silva, Brazil's former president, of his new Cabinet post as chief of staff of his successor, current president Dilma Ruossef. The opposition attacked the appointment as a legal shield to protect the two leaders who are close friends: da Silva, from detention; and Roussef, from impeachment.
According to CNN, Roussef welcomed his former mentor, saying his presence in her government will bring much needed political capital to counter her own declining ratings and public unrest over a worsening economic crisis. Da Silva, known for his persuasive communication skills, might also stave off a campaign to impeach Roussef, which would effectively end the 13-year reign of the Workers' Party in Brazil.
Roussef said at a press conference, "He comes with his knowledge of the country, of the needs of the country and his commitment ... it is going to be a huge boost for my government."
Critics and the opposition, however, have unsurprisingly voiced their objections. The Guardian reports that their concern springs from Silva's using his exalted position to invoke privilege and escape undergoing trial like a common citizen in the usual courts. The former president has been accused of receiving pay-offs from construction companies. Some of the more lavish gifts that he had allegedly received are a luxury beach front apartment and a farm. Silva had denied all charges.
Roussef said that Silva will still go through the due process of law despite his new powerful position. The Orange County Register quotes the incumbent as saying that Cabinet ministers do not enjoy the protection of immunity. It is only a matter of time before Silva goes through the investigation. The real question, though Roussef said, is "whom will he be investigated by."
Roussef, who served as Silva's chief of staff in 2005-2010, has been accused of fiscal mismanagement and is at risk of facing impeachment.
