Brazil’s supreme court begins trial of politicians in murder of Rio councilwoman

The Guardian - World NewsCenter-LeftEN 2 min read 100% complete by Agence France-Press in BrazilFebruary 24, 2026 at 07:35 PM

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Brazil's supreme court has begun the trial of politicians accused of ordering the 2018 murder of Rio de Janeiro councilwoman Marielle Franco and her driver, Anderson Gomes. Franco, an outspoken critic of Rio's militias, was killed in the city center. The trial focuses on former federal lawmaker Chiquinho Brazão and his brother Domingos, a former state lawmaker, who are accused of orchestrating the assassination due to Franco's opposition to militia land grabs. Several others are also on trial, including a former police commissioner accused of obstructing the investigation. The Brazão brothers deny involvement, while one of the convicted gunmen claimed a million-dollar reward motivated the crime. The trial is being overseen by Justice Alexandre de Moraes.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Jair Bolsonaro 40% Anderson Gomes 60% Monica Benicio 60% Alexandre de Moraes ×265% Anielle Franco ×270% Supreme Court ×370% Rivaldo Barbosa 70% Ronnie Lessa ×275% Domingos Brazão ×280% Chiquinho Brazão 80% Rio de Janeiro ×285% Marielle Franco ×695%

Keywords

political assassination 90% organized crime 80% militia groups 70% supreme court trial 70% political corruption 60% land seizure 50% impunity 40% criminal ecosystem 40%