Brazil Senate President Davi Alcolumbre Denies Receiving Foreign Payments

Brazil’s Senate president, Davi Alcolumbre, publicly refuted claims that he received any money in Brazil or abroad. In a speech to the plenary on 16 June, he said, “Jamais recebi aqueles valores… no Brasil ou no exterior,” calling the allegations “entirely false” and an attempt to tarnish his name and the Senate’s reputation. Alcolumbre warned that the accusations constitute a personal and institutional attack, pledged to identify those who invented the story, and vowed to defend himself through legal channels. He also announced that the Senate would investigate the basis of the allegations, which stem from a Veja magazine report linking him to a second delation request by businessman Daniel Vorcaro, former owner of the collapsed Banco Master.

The controversy has heightened tensions in Brazil’s political landscape, with commentary noting Vorcaro’s extensive network across the three branches of government and the potential implications for governance. The column highlighted broader concerns, including the involvement of other political figures and the impact on legislative and judicial processes, while noting support for Alcolumbre from senators such as Rodrigo Pacheco and Hamilton Mourão.