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Brazil's Lula names Brazilian lawyer of Polish descent as new justice minister

12.01.2024 14:30
Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva announced the appointment of Ricardo Lewandowski, a prominent lawyer of Polish descent and former head of Brazil's Supreme Federal Tribunal, as the new Minister of Justice.
Brazilian President Luiz Incio Lula da Silva and Minister of Justice Ricardo Lewandowski.
Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and Minister of Justice Ricardo Lewandowski. Photo: PAP/EPA/Andre Borges

Lewandowski, known for his extensive legal career and influential role in the Brazilian judiciary, brings a wealth of experience to the position.

Born in Rio de Janeiro in 1948 to a Polish industrialist who immigrated to Brazil post-World War II, Lewandowski has been a key figure in Brazil's legal landscape. His tenure as the head of the Supreme Federal Tribunal from 2006 to 2012 marked a period of significant judicial activities. He also presided over the Brazilian Electoral Tribunal.

Lewandowski gained attention for his involvement in the impeachment proceedings against former President Dilma Rousseff, President Lula da Silva's successor (and predecessor, Lula was twice elected president), who was accused of legal violations.

On a lighter note, the 75-year-old lawyer humorously addressed queries about any relation to Poland’s mighty striker Robert Lewandowski. During a press conference, when asked about the world-renowned footballer sharing his surname, he stated that he was a supporter of the Polish national player and had been closely following his career.

Source: PAP