A Brazilian government minister resigned on Tuesday after facing corruption charges linked to his previous role as a member of parliament.
Communications Minister Juscelino Filho announced his resignation to focus on his legal defence. Filho, aged 40, becomes the first minister in President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva’s third non-consecutive term, which began in 2023, to step down over corruption allegations.
Despite leaving his cabinet position, Filho will retain his seat in Congress as a member of a centre-right party. He has denied any wrongdoing, although local media reported that he is accused of misusing public funds intended for road paving projects in Maranhão state for personal benefit.
Earlier on Tuesday, Attorney General Paulo Gonet filed formal charges against Filho. However, details of the case remain confidential.
The situation marks a shift in President Lula’s approach to ministers facing corruption allegations. During his previous terms between 2003 and 2010, Lula often defended ministers accused of misconduct and typically only demanded resignations after formal convictions.
In June last year, Lula stated that Filho would have to leave his post if formal charges were brought against him following an investigation by the federal police.
Filho has served in the federal government since 2014.
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