Abrasel (Brazilian Association of Bars and Restaurants), which brings together more than 11,000 establishments in the country, defended Afrânio Barreira, owner of the Coco Bambu Group, which is among the targets of the Federal Police’s action against Bolsonarista businessmen who defended a coup in a Whatsapp group in case Lula (PT) wins the elections.
“I know Afrânio and have been with him several times. I have never seen him speak in that direction. Of course he is a Bolsonarista, he is close to the president. But in this matter of associating him with a coup, I personally do not prosper” , says Paulo Solmucci, president of the entity.
He says that the PF action should not affect the image of the sector. “Very little has been published in the press. My personal knowledge of Afrânio is exactly the opposite. He is a guy who has always valued democracy, elections. that will be clear. This is my expectation”, he says.
The Federal Police fulfills this Tuesday morning (23) search warrants against members of the group. Minister Alexandre de Moraes also authorized that businessmen be heard by the PF.
In a note released last week, Afrânio Barreira said that he never spoke out in favor of any conduct that is not institutional and democratic.
“Democracy is the key to building a better Brazil. I highly value the opportunity to vote and choose representatives of our Brazilian people, and every citizen should be aware of the importance of this moment. I value and will always defend a process honest and fair electoral process”, said the businessman.
Joana Cunha with Paulo Ricardo Martins and Diego Felix
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