São Paulo City Hall Clarifies Vice Mayor's Role Amid Speculation
The São Paulo City Hall has officially stated that Mayor Ricardo Nunes (MDB) has not abandoned plans to appoint his vice mayor, Colonel Mello Araújo (PL), to the position of Secretary for Strategic Affairs. The municipal administration emphasized that it was a mutual decision for Araújo to focus on coordinating strategic actions across various departments rather than leading a specific secretariat.
In a statement released on January 3, the City Hall reiterated that the Secretary of Strategic Affairs will report to Colonel Mello Araújo. This announcement comes following the mayor's first cabinet meeting, held on January 2, where it was confirmed that Araújo, while not assigned to a distinct secretariat, will play a pivotal role in overseeing the city's strategic initiatives.
During this initial meeting, Nunes indicated that Araújo would lead the Summer Rain Prevention Plan, which encompasses public policies from multiple departments. This arrangement aims to ensure a comprehensive approach to the city's strategic planning and implementation.
Currently, without a designated secretariat, the PL party holds only one portfolio within the Nunes administration--the Secretariat for Green and Environmental Affairs, which will be overseen by Rodrigo Ashiushi (PL), a former mayor of Suzano.
Additionally, the list of 26 secretaries released during the meeting shows that the Secretariat for Strategic Projects remains under the leadership of Edsom Ortega. Prior to the inauguration, there was speculation that Araújo might take on this role due to his affiliation with former President Jair Bolsonaro (PL).
When questioned about the vice mayor's potential oversight of any specific department, Nunes clarified that although formal appointment to a secretariat may not occur, Araújo's responsibilities as vice mayor place him in a strategic position. Nunes explained that the vice mayor's role allows for greater involvement and coordination of the city's initiatives.
In summary, the São Paulo City Hall has made it clear that while Colonel Mello Araújo will not head a dedicated secretariat, his involvement will be crucial in steering strategic efforts across the administration, thereby enhancing the collaborative governance of São Paulo.
