Ibaneis Rocha withdraws Senate bid, reshapes DF political landscape

Former Distrito Federal governor Ibaneis Rocha (MDB) announced on 8 July that he is abandoning his pre‑candidacy for the Senate in the 2026 elections, saying “I want to rest, I have taken care of Brasília and now I need to take care of myself.” The 55‑year‑old confirmed he will not seek any other office and will return to the DF only after party conventions in early August.

His withdrawal comes amid the fallout from the Banco Master scandal, which involved the BRB’s failed purchase of the bank and generated a multi‑billion‑real loss. Rocha’s relationship with current governor Celina Leão (PP) deteriorated after public disputes over the crisis, and the governor has backed other Senate hopefuls, including former first lady Michelle Bolsonaro and deputy Bia Kicis (PL).

The MDB in the Distrito Federal now faces a re‑organisation of its Senate ticket. Party leaders, such as deputy Wellington Luiz, say the party must “re‑organise” and will negotiate with the governing coalition to select a new nominee. The vacancy opens the field for the two Senate seats up for election in 2026, prompting strategic talks among MDB, PP, PL and the Republicanos.

Overall, Rocha’s exit removes a major right‑leaning figure from the race, reshuffles the local political alliances, and forces a re‑assessment of candidacies ahead of the upcoming conventions.