Brazilian mayor goes on run after running entire town using WhatsApp
Lidiane Leite has gone on the run after being accused of stealing education funds
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.A Brazilian mayor has gone on the run after being accused of embezzling public funds and running her government through WhatsApp.
Lidiane Leite is believed to have communicated with officials in the town of Bom Jardim in Brazil's north-west by sending WhatsApp messages.
Meanwhile, she lived the life of luxury in Sao Luiz, the state capital of Maranhão, 277km from the town.
She is also accused of siphoning off $4m (£2.6m) from the town’s schools budget in one of Brazil’s poorest states, according to the BBC.
Her boyfriend, Beto Rocha, has previously been banned from running for mayor in 2012 due to corruption allegations.
The 25-year-old ran in his place and appointed him as her chief adviser. The couple broke up earlier this year and Rocha resigned shortly afterwards.
Leite went on the run shortly after she was named in an investigation into the misuse of state education funds. The town’s education system has now collapsed.
Leite’s successor as mayor, her former deputy, has promised to carry out a full investigation and a state judge has said he will seek an international arrest warrant if she does not hand herself in.
Her lawyer, Carlos Barros, said she was not aware of any wrongdoing.
"She was too young and and inexperienced when she took office," he said "She lacked confidence and delegated many tasks to Mr Rocha."
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments