President Lula Announces New Appointment
Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva announced on Monday, October 20, 2025, the appointment of federal deputy Guilherme Boulos as the new Minister-Chief of the General Secretariat of the Presidency of the Republic. The announcement, made via social media, confirmed that Boulos will replace Márcio Macêdo in the role. The official publication of the appointment is expected in the Diário Oficial da União (Official Gazette) on Tuesday, October 21, 2025.
Role of the General Secretariat
The General Secretariat of the Presidency plays a crucial role within the Brazilian government, primarily responsible for coordinating the government's engagement with social movements. This function is considered a central pillar of President Lula's political strategy. The outgoing minister, Márcio Macêdo, reportedly faced criticism from social movements regarding an alleged lack of dialogue, making this change significant for the administration's outreach efforts.
Guilherme Boulos: Background and Political Trajectory
Guilherme Boulos, aged 43, brings a robust background in activism and politics to his new ministerial position. He is a prominent leader of the Homeless Workers' Movement (MTST) and a federal deputy for São Paulo, having been elected in 2022 as the most-voted federal deputy in the state. Boulos is a member of the Socialism and Liberty Party (PSOL). His academic credentials include a degree in Philosophy and a master's degree in Psychiatry from the University of São Paulo (USP). He has previously run for the presidency in 2018 and for mayor of São Paulo in 2020 and 2024.
Political Implications and Future Outlook
The appointment of Guilherme Boulos is widely viewed as a strategic move by President Lula to foster a 'symbolic rapprochement' and reinforce the government's connections with popular and left-wing sectors, which were instrumental in his 2022 election victory. Boulos himself stated that his main mission in the new role will be 'to place the government on the street'. The move also carries considerable political weight for Boulos, who is considered a likely candidate for mayor of São Paulo in 2026. Joining the federal government is expected to increase his national visibility, although it may cause some internal discomfort within his PSOL party, which traditionally aims to maintain independence from the government.
7 Comments
Rotfront
While Boulos's connection to social movements is a clear asset for Lula, it remains to be seen if his activism background translates effectively into high-level government administration. There's a fine line between advocacy and governance.
Karamba
This appointment undeniably strengthens Lula's ties with his base and popular sectors, which is politically savvy. However, it puts Boulos's PSOL in a tricky position, potentially compromising their independent stance and alienating some supporters.
Matzomaster
Concerned about Boulos's radical past in such a central ministerial position. Risky.
Karamba
Is Boulos really qualified for a complex government management role? I doubt it.
Rotfront
Bringing a figure like Boulos into the cabinet could inject fresh energy and perspective into government operations. Nevertheless, one must consider the potential for internal conflicts within the PSOL and whether this move will truly bridge divides or just shift them.
BuggaBoom
PSOL is losing its independence by joining the establishment. Disappointing.
lettlelenok
Just a political maneuver to boost Boulos's 2026 mayoral bid. Very transparent.