Legislative Assembly of Rio de Janeiro (Alerj) approved the appointment of Thiago Pampolha to assume the position of Counselor of the State Court of Auditors (TCE)
In the political scenario of the a significant movement occurred with the resignation of the deputy governor which was appointed to the State Court of Auditors. Pampolha, elected in 2022 alongside Governor Claudio Castro, left his duties to take the new position on the same day the change was approved by the Rio de Janeiro Parliament. This decision is part of a broader political strategy of Castro, which is already eyeing the 2026 elections.
Claudio Castro’s plan is clear: to promote Rodrigo Bacellar, current president of the State Legislative Assembly, to the succession line, preparing it to take over the state government. The idea is that Castro will resign as governor in 2026, allowing Bacellar to assume Guanabara Palace. This transition would give Bacelá time to gain visibility and show work ahead of the state government, preparing it to compete in the October 2026 elections. The expectation is for a fierce dispute, possibly against the mayor of Rio de Janeiro, Eduardo Paes.
Pampolha’s appointment to the Court of Auditors generated some criticism between Castro Allies, but the governor defended the choice as a prerogative of the executive branch. He highlighted the importance of having an experienced politician in the Rio de Janeiro Court, arguing that the pampalha experience would be valuable to the court. Despite criticism, Castro maintains his position, reinforcing the strategy of strengthening his political group for the next elections.
Claudio Castro said he will not resign his office this year to give visibility to Bacelá, but confirmed that the unmatch will take place by 2026, until the deadline of April, as established by the Superior Electoral Court for candidates for elective positions. The governor plans to apply for the Federal Senate of Rio de Janeiro, which is part of strategic preparation for the next elections. The goal is to strengthen Bacelá’s position and ensure continuity to Castro’s political group, ensuring that its policies and projects continue in the state.
*With information from Rodrigo Viga
*Report produced with the aid of AI
