Rio Grande do Norte revokes Natal prison construction bid

The Governor of Rio Grande do Norte, Fátima Bezerra, has announced the immediate revocation of the bidding process for the construction of a new public prison in the Potengi neighborhood, located in the North Zone of Natal.

The decision follows opposition from local residents regarding the chosen site. Critics cited the area's historical association with the former João Chaves penitentiary, which left a legacy of fear in the community. The Governor stated that the decision to select a new location for the male prison will be rediscussed with active participation from civil society representatives.

Although the specific tender for the ‘Cadeia Pública do Potengi’—which had been awarded to HB Engenharia Ltda. for R$ 7.13 million—was canceled, the state government maintains that expanding prison capacity remains an urgent administrative necessity. Budgetary funds for the project are guaranteed, and the state plans to pursue the construction at a different location.