Governor Mauro Mendes, during the opening of an agricultural fair, praised the performance of the Military Police, who managed to frustrate the invasions
The Brazilian agricultural sector is facing a period of increasing tension, with a significant increase in the invasions of rural properties promoted by the . During the first week of the “Red April”, a period historically marked by land occupations, the MST has already accounted for invasions in ten states. The movement, dissatisfied with the slowness of the federal government in relation to land reform, intensified its actions compared to the previous year, generating concerns between farmers who call for greater legal certainty. In Mato Grosso, one of the most affected states, more than 50 attempts at invasion were recorded, all unsuccessfully. Governor Mauro Mendes, during the opening of an agricultural fair, praised the performance of the Military Police, who was able to thwart the invasions.
State Security Secretary Colonel RI confirmed that 56 attempts were prevented, reinforcing the state government’s zero tolerance policy regarding land invasions. Mendes assured that this firm posture will be maintained, highlighting the importance of protecting the rights of rural owners. Meanwhile, the Planalto Palace has appealed for calm among MST militants, citing budgetary limitations as a justification for the delay in the implementation of agrarian reform. The government argues that the program has been paralyzed since Michel Temer’s management and calls for understanding in the face of current difficulties. However, the government’s response has not been enough to calm the mood, and tensions continue to grow, with the MST by pressing on faster and more effective actions.
Governors of different states have also manifested publicly about the situation. Jorginho Melo, from Santa Catarina, created the acronym movement of rural workers with land (MCT) as a response to the MST, seeking to represent the interests of rural producers. Romeu Zema, from Minas Gerais, has been aligned with rural producers, condemning the invasions promoted by the movement. The situation highlights the complexity of the debate on land reform in Brazil, which involves issues of social justice, legal certainty and economic development.