São Paulo Governor Tarcísio de Freitas Faces Criticism Over Privatizations Amid Two‑Candidate Election

Former finance minister and gubernatorial candidate Fernando Haddad warned that Governor Tarcísio de Freitas’ aggressive privatization agenda is harming public services in São Paulo. Haddad cited the recent transfer of CPTM commuter‑train lines to private operators, noting a rise in accidents, and urged a deeper review of the planned Sabesp water‑sewage privatization.

The gubernatorial race has been reduced to just Haddad and Tarcísio after other candidates withdrew, creating a rare two‑candidate scenario. Electoral law stipulates that a second round would not be held; if the vote were tied, the older candidate—Haddad—would be declared winner. This situation has only occurred once before, in Tocantins in 2010. Analysts say the two‑candidate contest reflects high political polarization and could determine the future of the state’s privatization policies.