Drauzio Varella to run for seat in Academia Brasileira de Letras

Physician and author Drauzio Varella, 83, is expected to run for seat number 32 at the Academia Brasileira de Letras (ABL). The vacancy was created following the death of journalist Zuenir Ventura, who passed away at age 95 due to pneumonia.

Varella, known for his work in health communication and his 20 published books including ‘Estação Carandiru’ and ‘Por um Fio’, has reportedly been encouraged by ABL members to seek a seat for several years.

The formal candidacy process begins after the ABL holds a memorial session for Ventura. Interested candidates must then submit a letter of introduction to the Academy's president, Merval Pereira, within the designated timeframe before a secret election is held to select the new permanent member.