Statement on the case of Marielle Franco

Conectas reinforces the importance of not only identifying those responsible for the murder of Marielle and Anderson but also ensuring that justice is served swiftly and transparently

Foto: Suamy Beydoun/ AGIF via AFP

Conectas Human Rights is closely monitoring developments surrounding investigations into the brutal murder of Marielle Franco and Anderson Gomes, which occurred in 2018 in the central region of Rio de Janeiro.

The latest development is the arrest of three individuals on Sunday (24), accused of being behind the crime, according to a report by the Federal Police. The revelation of the names under investigation, public and institutional actors who should uphold constitutional values, not violently break them, is a source of further concern to us. 

We hereby emphasise the importance of not only identifying the responsible parties but also ensuring that justice is served swiftly and transparently.

Six years after the assassination of the councilwoman and her driver, it is fundamental that the investigations proceed independently and without interference, ensuring that there are no obstructions that could compromise the search for truth and accountability of those involved. We understand that this case goes beyond the loss of two lives. It is about preserving democratic principles and combating impunity.

We express our solidarity with the family of Marielle Franco and Anderson Gomes, and reaffirm our commitment to fight for justice, human rights, and the memory of all victims of violence and injustice in our country.

Brazilian society deserves answers and the assurance that crimes against human rights defenders do not go unpunished and are not repeated.

May the memory of Marielle Franco and Anderson Gomes continue to guide us in the pursuit of a fairer and more equitable Brazil.