Brazilian Energy Minister Resigns
May 23, 2007
Brazilian Energy Minister Silas Rondeau has resigned amid a corruption scandal linking him to kickbacks, it was reported Wednesday.
Rondeau, however, has maintained his innocence amid the ongoing investigation, Estado de Sao Paulo newspaper said.
Authorities have arrested 50 people in connection with the scandal, including several former governors and current mayors.
Dubbed Operation Nevalha, or Straight Razor, the investigation is looking into other public works projects for possible graft and government payoffs.
Corruption scandals have dogged numerous officials in President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva’s administration, though so far none have directly implicated the president.