On Tuesday, June 29, 2026, authorities conducted a search and seizure operation targeting addresses linked to Tico Kuzma, the president of the City Council of Curitiba (Paraná state). The operation was carried out under the supervision of the Special Group for Combatting Organized Crime, known as Gaeco, which operates under the Public Prosecutor's Office of Paraná. The investigation centers on allegations of illegal practices such as "rachadinha" – a form of corruption where public employees receive a portion of their salary in cash instead of through official payroll systems – and the alleged sale of public positions within the city’s executive branch.
The operation included searches at Kuzma’s office in the City Council building, as well as other locations associated with him. During these searches, law enforcement agents seized electronic devices, cellphones, documents, and notes, all of which have been sent for forensic analysis. Additionally, 37,500 Brazilian reais in cash were confiscated from the home of a City Council employee. According to prosecutors, the investigation began approximately one year ago following an anonymous tip-off. It has since uncovered evidence suggesting that Kuzma may have charged around 3,000 reais per recommendation for individuals seeking public positions. Furthermore, it is claimed that he required a portion of the salaries of those hired through his influence as a form of payment. However, the exact number of positions available to him and how many he allegedly charged for remain unclear.
During a session held earlier on Tuesday, Kuzma made a statement defending himself against the accusations. In a press release, he stated that he had no formal knowledge of the actions that prompted the investigation. He added that he was immediately seeking information from the relevant authorities to understand the nature of the inquiry fully. Meanwhile, the City Council issued its own statement confirming that it had authorized access to its premises and remains ready to cooperate with the ongoing investigations, offering to provide all necessary clarifications.
The mayor’s office of Curitiba also responded to the situation, stating that it would comply with the requests of the authorities and provide any required information. They emphasized that should any irregularities involving municipal employees be confirmed, the city administration would promptly remove those involved and take all appropriate administrative and legal measures, ensuring strict adherence to due process.
Tico Kuzma has served six terms in the City Council and is considered an ally of Mayor Eduardo Pimentel, who belongs to the same political party, PSD. His long-standing tenure in the council suggests a deep involvement in local governance structures, making the current investigation particularly significant. The allegations against him could potentially impact the functioning of the City Council and raise questions about the integrity of local government operations in Curitiba.
The investigation into Kuzma comes amid broader concerns over corruption and misuse of public resources in Brazil. Similar cases have been reported in other cities, often involving high-ranking officials and leading to widespread public scrutiny. These incidents frequently trigger calls for greater transparency and accountability in public administration. As the probe continues, more details regarding the scope of the alleged misconduct and the potential consequences for those implicated are expected to emerge.
The outcome of this investigation will likely determine whether further legal action is taken against Kuzma and others potentially involved. If found guilty, it could result in his removal from office and possible criminal charges. The case also highlights the importance of independent oversight bodies in combating systemic issues within public institutions. As the situation develops, the responses from both the accused and the authorities will play a crucial role in shaping the narrative surrounding this unfolding scandal.
2 reports
CartaCapitalIndependentCenterFactual 85Objective 807 days agoThe president of the City Council of Curitiba, Tico Kuzma (PSD), was targeted by a police operation linked to allegations of selling public positions and 'rachadinha'—a form of corruption involving the collection of bribes from public employees. The investigation, led by the Paraná State Prosecutor’s Office, began approximately one year ago based on an anonymous tip. According to prosecutors, Kuzma allegedly demanded around R$3,000 per recommendation for public roles and received a portion of the salaries of those he recommended. During the operation, authorities searched Kuzma’s office and seized electronic devices, documents, and cash totaling R$37,500 from a council employee’s home. Kuzma denied any knowledge of the alleged misconduct and stated he would seek clarification from the relevant authorities. The City Council confirmed it authorized access to its premises and pledged cooperation with the investigation. The city’s mayor’s office also expressed willingness to provide information if any irregularities were confirmed.
Bias read (Center): The article presents the facts of the investigation without overtly favoring either side. It includes direct quotes from Kuzma and the City Council, providing balanced perspectives. There is no evident loaded language or one-sided sourcing, maintaining neutrality in reporting the ongoing legal and政治
Why these scores (Factual 85 · Objective 80): The article provides detailed information about the operation targeting Tico Kuzma, including the involvement of the MP, the nature of the investigation, and statements from Kuzma and the Chamber. It avoids explicit accusations and presents facts neutrally, though some details remain speculative.
Folha de S.PauloIndependentCenterFactual 80Objective 857 days agoThe president of the Curitiba City Council, Tico Kuzma (PSD), is under investigation by the Paraná State Prosecutor's Office for alleged involvement in the sale of public positions within the city's executive branch and for practicing 'rachadinha,' a term referring to informal payments or bribes. This is the sixth term Kuzma has served in the council. The investigation suggests potential corruption involving public office and financial impropriety.
Bias read (Center): The article presents factual information about an ongoing investigation into allegations of corruption against a local politician without apparent bias. It does not include subjective language, one-sided sourcing, or omission of context that would indicate a clear ideological lean.
Why these scores (Factual 80 · Objective 85): The article accurately summarizes the situation without adding unverified details. It remains neutral in tone, focusing on the facts of the investigation and the roles of the involved parties.
★
Keep the news honest.
ObjectiveNews is reader-funded and ad-free — we show you the bias instead of hiding it. Support independent journalism for €5/month.
Become a Supporter
BR
