Distrito Federal officials face scrutiny over R$ 400 million BRB allegation

Legislators in the Distrito Federal are demanding explanations regarding allegations that former governor Ibaneis Rocha requested R$ 400 million to facilitate a deal between Banco de Brasília (BRB) and Banco Master. The allegations, stemming from Federal Police investigations into former banker Daniel Vorcaro, suggest that R$ 80 million may have been paid in cash as part of a plea bargain proposal. While Rocha’s defense denies any interference in BRB decisions, opposition lawmakers have questioned the responsibility of current governor Celina Leão and warned that financial losses at the public bank could impact essential services like health and education.

Simultaneously, the federal government under President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has rejected a request from the Distrito Federal administration to act as a guarantor for a loan intended to rescue BRB. The Attorney General's Office (AGU) described the request as “entirely unfounded,” noting that the Distrito Federal holds a 'C' rating in payment capacity (Capag), which disqualifies it from receiving sovereign guarantees under Treasury rules. The Ministry of Finance also warned of a potential deterioration in the region's fiscal health through 2026.