Brazilian Human Rights Minister Accused of Sexual Harassment

Brazil’s Human Rights Minister Silvio Almeida has been summoned by the government to address sexual harassment accusations brought against him by several women, including Racial Equality Minister Anielle Franco. Almeida denies the allegations and President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva insists on due process. The case has prompted an official investigation.

Brazil's government summoned Human Rights Minister Silvio Almeida on Friday to address allegations of sexual harassment made by several women, including another cabinet minister.

In a video posted on social media, Almeida, a prominent advocate for minority rights, firmly denied the accusations, calling them 'absurd lies' and baseless. Local news outlet Metropoles reported that one of the alleged victims is Racial Equality Minister Anielle Franco.

Franco, also a known human rights activist, chose not to comment on the matter. The case has garnered attention from local NGO Me Too Brazil, which confirmed receiving the accusations and offering support to the victims. President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has stated that anyone found guilty of harassment will be removed from the government.

(With inputs from agencies.)