Approved by the CCJ with 35 votes in favor and 15 against, the proposal aims to prohibit the procedure in Brazil in all cases, even those currently permitted by law, such as in situations of rape
DA is intensifying efforts to have it analyzed later this year. Led by deputy Silas Câmara (Republicanos-AM), parliamentarians intend to pressure the president of the House, Arthur Lira (PP-AL), to install a special commission to discuss the proposal. The PEC, which was recently approved by the Constitution and Justice Commission (CCJ) with 35 votes in favor and 15 against, aims to prohibit abortion in Brazil, even in cases currently permitted by law, such as in situations of rape.
The proposal, originally presented in 2012 by former deputy Eduardo Cunha, is now awaiting the formation of a special committee to be debated in around 40 sessions before going to a vote in the Chamber plenary and, later, in the Senate. The approval of the PEC in the CCJ generated significant divisions between parliamentarians and civil society. Representative Caroline de Toni, president of the CCJ, expressed her desire to see the proposal move forward during her term, which is about to end. However, the expectation is that the PEC will become a challenge for the next president of the Chamber, as Arthur Lira will leave office in February 2025.
The agenda is not considered a priority in the Chamber, and there is speculation that Lira’s successor, possibly Hugo Motta (Republicanos-PB), will have to deal with the issue. Experts believe that, even if the PEC advances, it will face resistance in the STF (Supreme Federal Court), as it is seen as a step backwards in relation to current legislation.
Arthur Lira’s political future
In addition to discussions about the abortion PEC, there are rumors about Arthur Lira’s political future after leaving the presidency of the Chamber. There is speculation that he could assume an important position, such as the presidency of the CCJ or the Budget Committee, or even join President Lula’s ministerial team. However, Lira appears more interested in maintaining his influence in Congress, especially after the example of his predecessor, Rodrigo Maia, who quickly lost power after leaving office.
*With information from Marília Ribeiro
*Report produced with the help of AI
