Wilson Witzel, the former governor of Rio de Janeiro and former federal judge, has announced his pre-candidacy for the governorship of the state.

This move marks Witzel's attempt to return to political power after a mandatory period of ineligibility. His return to the electoral arena follows a period of legal and political turmoil that led to his removal from office several years ago.

Witzel announced his bid with the Democratas party [4], which was formerly known as the PMB [4]. The announcement occurred during the first week of June 2024, with reports placing the event between June 6 [5] and June 8, 2024 [4]. The announcement took place at the Legislative Assembly of Rio de Janeiro.

The former governor's return comes after he completed a five-year period of ineligibility [1]. This ban was the result of his impeachment for corruption in 2021 [1, 2]. Witzel was officially removed from office on April 30, 2021 [3].

During his announcement, Witzel used strong language regarding public security and the role of law enforcement. "Polícia tem que agir. Se necessário, com a morte," Witzel said [6].

Not all political observers have welcomed the move. João Caldas said there was potential for instability within the party, suggesting there were already "doidos demais" — or too many crazy people — in the party [7].

Witzel's strategy involves leveraging his previous experience as both a judge and a governor to present himself as a disciplined leader capable of restoring order to the state. By aligning with the Democratas party, he seeks a platform to challenge the current administration and reclaim the executive seat he lost during the 2021 proceedings.

“Polícia tem que agir. Se necessário, com a morte.”

Witzel's return to the political fray tests the resilience of Rio de Janeiro's electoral laws regarding corruption and impeachment. His candidacy suggests that a five-year ban may not permanently alienate a candidate's base, and his aggressive rhetoric on security indicates a strategy to pivot from his legal troubles toward a 'law and order' platform.