Opposition Deputies Call Governor Zema Cowardly Over Flávio Bolsonaro Criticism

Opposition deputies labeled Minas Gerais Governor Romeu Zema (Novo) a coward and an opportunist for criticizing Senator Flávio Bolsonaro (PL-RJ) on May 14, 2026 ^[1].

The dispute highlights growing fractures within the Brazilian right-wing coalition as political allies clash over public image and private loyalties. The tension follows the leak of an audio recording featuring Zema and banker Daniel Vorcaro, which critics say reveals a misalignment between the governor and his political partners.

Deputy Carlos Jordy (PL-RJ) addressed the conflict during a broadcast of Jovem Pan's "Direto ao Ponto" program. Jordy said Zema was opportunistic and cowardly in his criticism of Bolsonaro ^[1]. The deputy argued that Zema's public stance was politically motivated and only surfaced after the audio leak became public knowledge.

Similarly, Deputy Cabo Gilberto Silva (PL-PB) criticized the governor's timing. Silva said Zema acted in a cowardly and opportunistic manner by attacking Flávio Bolsonaro after the disclosure of the audio ^[2]. According to the opposition, the leaked conversation showed Zema aligning himself with opponents of the senator.

The conflict centers on the perceived betrayal of political alliances. While Zema has maintained a distinct identity within the Novo party, his relationship with the Bolsonaro family has been a focal point of his political positioning in Minas Gerais. The opposition deputies suggest that Zema is attempting to distance himself from the senator to gain a strategic advantage.

Zema's criticism of the senator occurred in the wake of the Vorcaro audio leak ^[1]. The opposition maintains that the governor used the situation to pivot his public image, a move they describe as a betrayal of the conservative bloc's unity.