The return of the toilet and sinks by Janaína Lima has prompted a social media backlash, as she defends her actions claiming they were her personal assets while her successor expresses disbelief over the removals.
Former Brazilian Councillor Returns Toilet After Election Loss Amid Controversy
Former Brazilian Councillor Returns Toilet After Election Loss Amid Controversy
Janaína Lima, a former city councillor in São Paulo, has returned a toilet and two sinks removed from her office after losing her re-election bid.
A former city councillor in Brazil, Janaína Lima, has made headlines after returning a toilet and two sinks that were removed from her office following her electoral defeat. This incident has sparked public debate and social media outcry.
Videos surfaced online showing employees from Lima’s office hauling away the bathroom facilities just as her term as São Paulo councilwoman came to an end. Lima explained that she decided to donate the fixtures, which she claimed were purchased with her own funds, stating, "Obviously, neither I nor my advisers need a toilet."
According to Lima, the renovation of the bathroom was fully funded with her personal resources, and thus not the property of the council. She indicated that she was acting in accordance with the legal department's advice, which permitted her to remove personally implemented installations. Lima noted the building's hydraulic system is "sensitive," suggesting her concerns about potential plumbing issues.
Despite returning the toilet and sinks, Lima mentioned that other enhancements she made to her office, such as decorative light fixtures and glass partitions, would remain for her successor. After losing her re-election bid to Adrilles Jorge from the Brazilian Labour Party in the 2024 elections, her actions have been met with mixed responses.
In a light-hearted remark about the situation, Jorge mentioned his team would "use a communal potty" until a resolution is reached. He also expressed surprise at the removal of the facilities without prior notice, commenting that he found the situation perplexing.
Ricardo Teixeira, the newly elected president of the House, has stated that "appropriate measures" will be taken regarding the matter, as the incident raises questions about ethical conduct among public officials. The story continues to unfold as public reaction and official responses develop in the aftermath of Lima's controversial decision.
