Ciro Nogueira Calls for Impartial Investigation into Flávio Bolsonaro amid Banco Master Controversy

Senator Ciro Nogueira, president of the Progressistas (PP) party, has publicly stated that presidential candidate Flávio Bolsonaro must clarify his connection to banker Daniel Vorcaro amidst ongoing investigations tied to the Banco Master scandal. Nogueira emphasized that if Flávio is found guilty of any wrongdoing, he should face exemplary consequences. However, if innocent, Flávio’s name should be cleared and he should be allowed to proceed with his candidacy, which had previously seen strong poll numbers.

Nogueira’s support for Flávio Bolsonaro is conditional, depending on how the case known as Caso Master progresses and Flávio's future electoral performance. He indicated a willingness to consider alternative political strategies for the bolsonaristas, mentioning Michelle Bolsonaro as a potential “plan B” candidate.

The context includes recent revelations that Flávio engaged in negotiations with Daniel Vorcaro regarding financing a film about former President Jair Bolsonaro titled "Dark Horse." While the Federal Police are not formally investigating these film financing negotiations, they are part of the broader scrutiny surrounding Banco Master-related financial dealings.

Additionally, a new phase of Operation Compliance Zero, launched by the Federal Police on May 7, is investigating multiple cases of financial fraud linked to Banco Master. This operation targets both Flávio Bolsonaro’s circle and Ciro Nogueira himself, who faces allegations of having received R$18 million in bribes. Nogueira’s brother, Raimundo Nogueira, has also been placed under electronic monitoring. Ciro Nogueira denies any wrongdoing and has publicly stated he would resign if investigations prove illegal activity on his part.

Nogueira underscored the necessity of impartial investigations without shielding any suspects, reflecting his stance that justice must be allowed to proceed without political interference. He expressed concern about the timing of these investigations during an election year but acknowledged the need for transparency and judicial scrutiny. Flávio Bolsonaro has denied any illicit advantages from the negotiations with Vorcaro, affirming that the funding was private.

The unfolding situation leaves Flávio Bolsonaro’s candidacy uncertain, with Nogueira and others carefully watching how legal and electoral developments evolve in the coming weeks.