Júnior Garimpeiro: MP appeals to remove mayor of Centro Novo do Maranhão

The Public Ministry of Maranhão (MP-MA) has filed an appeal with the Maranhão Court of Justice (TJMA) seeking the precautionary removal of Joedson Almeida dos Santos, known as Júnior Garimpeiro, the mayor of Centro Novo do Maranhão.

The legal action stems from a popular lawsuit questioning an electronic bidding process (Pregão Eletrônico SRP nº 013/2024) for road recovery services. The contract, valued at approximately R$ 18 million, is under scrutiny for potential irregularities, including a total amount that reportedly exceeds the Municipal Works Secretariat's annual budget by more than 600%. Other concerns include lack of transparency in cost composition, insufficient road segment delimitation, and potential restrictions on competition.

While a lower court previously denied the request for removal, citing a lack of evidence that the mayor would interfere with investigations, the MP-MA argues that his removal is necessary to preserve the integrity of the judicial process. The TJMA has redistributed the appeal to one of its Public Law Chambers for analysis. Until a decision is reached, the mayor remains in office.