São Paulo prosecutors seek dismissal of racism case against Fabiana Bolsonaro

The Public Prosecutor's Office of São Paulo (MP-SP) has requested the dismissal of a racism investigation against State Deputy Fabiana Bolsonaro (PL-SP). The case stems from an incident in March during a session of the São Paulo State Legislative Assembly (Alesp), where Bolsonaro performed blackface.

Prosecutor Sérgio Turra Sobrane argued that there was insufficient evidence to prove the specific intent required to characterize the crime of racism. The prosecution noted that the deputy's actions, which she described as a “social experiment” to reflect on white privilege and oppose Federal Deputy Erika Hilton, did not demonstrate a clear intent to segregate, discriminate, or promote prejudice against Black people. The MP-SP stated that while the conduct may be subject to criticism, it did not contain elements of mockery or ridicule that would constitute a criminal offense.

Furthermore, the prosecutor cited parliamentary immunity as a legal protection, noting that the deputy's speech and actions within the assembly are protected under Article 53 of the Federal Constitution, which ensures the inviolability of opinions, words, and votes related to the exercise of a mandate.