Cachoeira do Sul Transport Contract Under Scrutiny for Possible Favoritism

In Cachoeira do Sul, Brazil, the municipal Transport and Mobility Secretary Orion Ponsi was called to a special plenary session to answer questions about an emergency contract for urban public transport. Councilor Mariana Carlos (PT) highlighted concerns that the contract’s technical and legal criteria, pricing, duration, and execution may have been influenced, noting that the secretary admitted to showing the project to companies before a formal tender, which could constitute preferential treatment.

The inquiry, initiated by request No. 283/2026 and filed on 7 July, also examined claims that a strike by the previous operator prompted the emergency measure. Additionally, the city plans to implement a paid rotating parking system by decree, with revenues earmarked to support the transport service.