Minister Sônia Guajajara allegedly accused the government of Roraima of encouraging illegal mining in the state.| Photo: Marcelo Camargo/Agência Brasil

The senators of the temporary external committee of the Senate that monitors the humanitarian crisis of the Yanomami people approved, this Thursday (4th) the summoning of Minister Sônia Guajajara, of the Indigenous Peoples, to provide clarification on alleged accusations against the government of the state of Roraima (see full).

The petitioner, Senator Dr. Hiran (PP-RR), states that the minister has made “public accusations directed at the population of Roraima and the Governor of the State, Antonio Denarium (PP), in the sense of encouraging, supporting and promoting illegal mining activity” in indigenous lands .

“In a press conference held on May 1, the Minister stated, ostensibly, that Roraima’s main economic activity is illegal mining, and that the State Government insists on supporting the permanence of illicit mineral extraction in indigenous lands”, continued the senator in justifying the request.

According to Dr. Hiran, Sônia Guajajara’s statements belittle and disrespect “thousands of people from Roraima who work hard in legalized economic activities that are essential for generating income for the State and the country”.

The senator also stated, during the commission’s session, that the government needs to compensate the state of Roraima with a social program for “humble people who went to the gold mines envisioning the only way to support their families”.

The minister did not comment on the summons.