Fernando Haddad unveils security plan and attacks high Selic rate ahead of São Paulo campaign

Fernando Haddad, former finance minister and PT pre‑candidate for governor of São Paulo, said he will present a public‑security plan later this month, before his August government program. The plan, described as three layers, aims to combat organized‑crime “upper tiers” by targeting the financial structures of criminal factions and to protect vulnerable groups such as women, children, adolescents and the elderly, in cooperation with federal agencies.

In a separate interview, Haddad criticised the Central Bank for keeping the Selic interest rate at 14.25%, calling it an unnecessary problem that burdens the state budget. He argued the rate should be cut earlier, saying high interest costs prevent a primary surplus and force austerity. He linked the fiscal outlook to a possible shift in monetary policy after the election, noting the upcoming budget proposal aims for a surplus for the first time in many years.