Maranhão corruption and homicide investigations

Investigations by the Brazilian Supreme Court (STF) and Federal Police into corruption and obstruction of justice in Maranhão have led to significant political and legal developments involving the family of Governor Carlos Brandão.

The probes examine irregularities in public contracts, embezzlement, and potential links between illegal payments and the 2022 murder of businessman João Bosco Sobrinho Pereira Oliveira. Following requests from the Federal Police, Supreme Court Minister Flávio Dino ordered the 180-day removal of Daniel Itapary Brandão, the governor’s nephew, from his position as president of the Maranhão State Court of Accounts (TCE-MA).

In his ruling, Minister Dino noted that Brandão’s position could allow him to influence ongoing investigations or favor his uncle, whose accounts are overseen by the TCE-MA. The court order also prohibits Daniel Brandão from accessing the tribunal’s systems, contacting other investigated individuals, or communicating with Governor Carlos Brandão. Counselor Marcelo Tavares has reassumed the TCE-MA presidency to manage the institution.

Governor Carlos Brandão has attributed these legal actions to a political rift between himself and Minister Flávio Dino’s faction. He characterized the investigations, which also target former secretary Raimundo Cutrim, as being based on “manipulated narratives.” While Daniel Brandão has denied all allegations, investigators continue to examine whether the 2022 homicide was connected to bribery disputes regarding public contracts and the use of shell companies to hide illicit assets.