Paes says Garotinho's withdrawal from appeal is a maneuver to elect Ruas
'A clear interference in the electoral process,' stated the former mayor of Rio
TL;DR
- Eduardo Paes claims Anthony Garotinho's withdrawal from his candidacy appeal is a strategic move to benefit rival Douglas Ruas.
- Paes labels Garotinho a "straw" candidate whose actions are intended to interfere with the electoral process.
- A key piece of alleged evidence for Paes's claim is that Garotinho's son, Wladimir Garotinho, is running for federal deputy with the same party as Ruas (PL).
- Garotinho announced he asked the Superior Electoral Court (TSE) to annul his appeal, which questioned a decision rejecting his candidacy registration.
- If the TSE accepts Garotinho's request, Douglas Ruas would be confirmed as governor without a second round.
- Ruas secured 49.2% of the vote, Paes received 42.76%, and Garotinho got 3.1%.