Brazil’s human rights minister sacked over sexual harassment allegations

Removal of popular cabinet member Silvio Almedia comes as a blow to Lula's administration

Brazil's president has sacked one of his most popular cabinet members after claims Silvio Almeida sexually harassed at least two women - one of whom is another prominent figure, the racial equality minister Anielle Franco.

Almeida, the human rights minister, has denied the allegations, while Franco thanked President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva for his decisive action." But the scandal has dealt a major blow to Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva's administration and has been greeted with deep dismay by the Black rights movement.