The PT's pre-candidate for Governor of São Paulo, Fernando Haddad, took advantage of an event held this Saturday to send an indirect message to the political group of Governor Tarcísio de Freitas (Republicanos). While commenting on the negotiations for the selection of his running mate in this year's elections, the PT member highlighted the trajectory and reputation of the names considered for the vice-governor position, in a statement interpreted as a dig at the current vice-governor, Felício Ramuth (MDB).
Without directly mentioning Ramuth, Haddad emphasized that he is in dialogue with leaders who have extensive political and administrative experience, and stated that all potential members of his ticket have a public record free of ethical questions.
“You don’t have problems when you’re with qualified people, like I am right now. I’m surrounded by three highly qualified former ministers, with services rendered to the country and who have a completely unblemished ethical reputation. Nobody here has money offshore, in tax havens. Everyone here is a public servant who believes in Brazil,” said Haddad during an event in São Paulo.
The speech took place during the launch of a platform designed to gather suggestions for the development of the Workers' Party candidate's government program.
Reference to investigation
Haddad's statement comes months after the release of Information regarding an investigation involving Felício Ramuth and his wife.In February, Metrópoles reported that the vice-governor is being investigated for alleged money laundering related to transactions of US$1,6 million in Andorra, a small principality located between France and Spain that, for years, was considered a tax haven due to its low taxation.
Ramuth denies any wrongdoing. According to his version, the origin of the funds was proven before the Andorran courts, and all financial transactions were declared to the Brazilian tax authorities.
Despite the investigation, the PMDB member remains as vice-presidential candidate on the ticket led by Tarcísio de Freitas, who will seek re-election to the Palácio dos Bandeirantes (São Paulo state government headquarters).
Dispute for second place
Although the political scene is buzzing with activity surrounding the selection of the Workers' Party ticket, Haddad stated that he does not intend to rush the process of choosing his running mate.
Among the names considered strongest for the ticket are the Minister of the Environment, Marina Silva, the Minister of Planning, Simone Tebet, and the former minister Márcio França. Besides being considered for the vice-governor position, the three also appear as options to compete for the two Senate seats that will be up for grabs in São Paulo.
When asked about the ticket selection, Haddad remained calm and said that discussions are ongoing.
“I’m not in such a hurry. I’m just talking to people (…) These things will proceed naturally, as the matter demands. Without rushing. Everyone is on board,” he stated.
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