Brazil’s supreme court begins trial of politicians in murder of Rio councilwoman
The Guardian World
by Agence France-Press in BrazilFebruary 24, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Brazil’s supreme court has opened the trial of two politicians accused of ordering the 2018 murder of Rio de Janeiro councilwoman Marielle Franco, marking a significant moment in a case that highlights the deep connections between politics and organized crime in the city. Franco, a prominent activist who grew up in a favela, became a vocal critic of Rio’s powerful militia groups before her assassination alongside her driver, Anderson Gomes. The trial focuses on Chiquinho and Domingos Brazão, both accused of orchestrating the killing to silence Franco’s opposition.
Franco, known for her work defending human rights and fighting against social inequality, had long been targeted by criminal organizations due to her outspoken stance against their activities. Her murder shocked Brazil and drew international attention, sparking debates about violence, corruption, and the lack of accountability in Rio’s political and law enforcement systems. The trial is seen as a crucial step toward addressing these issues and holding those responsible for her death accountable.
Chiquinho and Domingos Brazão are alleged to have
Verticals
worldpolitics
Originally published on The Guardian World on 2/24/2026