Indigenous Leader Says Bolsonaro Must Leave for the Good of All

The President criticized Cacique Raoni in his speech at the UN

Brasília

After President Jair Bolsonaro (PSL) criticized him during a speech at the UN General Assembly, Cacique Raoni said on Wednesday (25) that the retired captain should "leave for the good of all."

The indigenous Caiapó leader was greeted by opposition deputies and the environmentalist front in an act against Bolsonaro's statements.

At the UN, the president said the Cacique was used like "ploy by foreign governments in their information war to advance their interests in the Amazon."

The cacique Raoni, in the middle. (Foto: Pedro Ladeira/Folhapress, PODER) - Folhapress

Raoni, whose arrival caused confusion in the House of Representatives, countered the president in a statement translated by his granddaughter Maya.

"Bolsonaro said I am not a leader. He who is not a leader and has to leave," he said. "Before something terrible happens, he has to leave for the good of all."

The Cacique said he fought for the preservation of the environment and the struggle of indigenous peoples.

Maya, at the end of her grandfather's statement, reinforced Raoni's recognition as an indigenous leader, a fact contested by Bolsonaro at the UN. The president even said that "Mr. Raoni's monopoly is over."

Megaron, the chief's son, repudiated Bolsonaro's statements and stated that the president, with his comments, eventually promoted Raoni to the world.

Opposition parliamentarians took advantage of the act to criticize the UN speech.

Joenia Wapichana (Rede-RR) defended the Indian's nomination for the Nobel Peace Prize.

Translated by Kiratiana Freelon

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