União Brasil Expels Tourism Minister Celso Sabino Over 'Party Disloyalty'

Minister Sabino Expelled from União Brasil

União Brasil, a prominent political party in Brazil, officially expelled Celso Sabino, the Minister of Tourism in President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva's government, on December 8, 2025. The party cited 'party disloyalty' as the reason for its decision, which followed Sabino's refusal to comply with a directive to resign from his federal executive position.

Timeline of Disciplinary Action

The disciplinary process against Minister Sabino began in October 2025, after he failed to meet a deadline set by União Brasil for its members to leave roles within the federal government. The party, which had decided to position itself in opposition to the Lula administration, had issued an ultimatum in September 2025, requiring all affiliated members holding federal executive posts to step down.

Despite reportedly submitting a letter of resignation on September 26, 2025, Sabino was persuaded by President Lula to remain in his role, particularly to oversee preparations for the COP30 climate conference in Belém, Pará. This defiance led to the initiation of disciplinary proceedings by União Brasil. In addition to the expulsion process, the party also moved to dissolve its state directory in Pará, which Sabino chaired.

The party's Ethics Council recommended Sabino's expulsion in November 2025, culminating in the national executive's final decision on December 8.

Political Context and Implications

União Brasil's decision to expel Sabino underscores a broader shift in the party's political alignment. Initially a part of the government's support base, the liberal-conservative party transitioned into opposition in 2025. Sabino's continued presence in the Ministry of Tourism was seen by the party as undermining the authority of its national executive.

Sources indicate that Sabino's desire to remain in the ministry was partly motivated by his political aspirations for the 2026 Senate elections in Pará, where he reportedly sought President Lula's support. Following his expulsion, Sabino publicly stated that the party's decision was 'unjust.' It is important to note that his expulsion from the party does not affect his mandate as a federal deputy.