Brazil's Lula fires human rights minister over sexual abuse

“The President considers it untenable to keep the minister in office given the nature of the allegations,” the statement said. Almeida denied any wrongdoing.

Local media reported Thursday evening that MeToo Brasil, an organization that defends female victims of sexual violence, had received complaints of sexual misconduct by Almeida. The organization confirmed this in a subsequent statement.

Minister for Racial Equality Anielle Franco – named by the press as one of the alleged victims – welcomed Lula's decision.

“Recognizing the gravity of this practice and acting immediately is the right course of action. That is why I want to highlight the energetic action of President Lula and thank him for all the signs of support and solidarity,” Franco said in a statement on Instagram late Friday.