Karen Barros Resigns as President of Maranhão's Consumer Protection Agency

Attorney Karen Barros announced her resignation as head of Procon-MA, the consumer protection agency of Brazil's Maranhão state. In a social‑media statement she cited political persecution and threats to her family, saying, “A política, a perseguição e o desrespeito atingiram quem eu amo. O preço disso tudo é muito alto. Nenhuma missão pode custar a paz da nossa família.”

During her tenure Barros oversaw a significant expansion of the agency’s network, increasing service points from 50 in 34 municipalities to 134 in 124 cities across the state. She also served as president of the national association of consumer protection agencies. Barros said she leaves “with her head held high,” will continue practicing law, and has no pending investigations.

The resignation follows political tensions after the Avante party denied a Senate candidacy slate for her husband, federal deputy Duarte Júnior.