Ethics proposal seeks to rehabilitate image of Congress.(Brazilian politics)(Brief Article)

SAO PAULO -- In the midst of a series of political scandals that have discredited Brazil's legislative processes, a group of congressmen lead by the recently elected President of the Congress, Aacio Neves are proposing new laws that would increase the accountability of Brazil's legislators.

The most important reform would be the elimination of parliamentary immunity. Currently, no sitting member of either house of Congress can be charged with a crime while holding office. Were immunity to be lifted, prosecutors likely would issue at least 25 indictments against members of the lower house alone. The privilege has been claimed 153 times in the past ten years for crimes that range from murder to embezzlement. Among those currently taking advantage of their parliamentary immunity include congressman Eurico Miranda, president the Masco da Gama soccer club, who is accused of negligence in the collapse of the team's soccer stadium in January.

In addition to ending parliamentary immunity, there has been a move to end the secret vote. Currently, for example, votes for impeachment are secret, thus limiting accountability.

The most vocal supporter of the bill, Neves is considered a possible presidential candidate and the bill is seen as a way of disassociating Neves from members of the government alliance who are linked to corruption. While the bill is not expected to pass, members of Neves' Social Democratic Party hope that the proposal will improve their image and strengthen their hand in next years elections.

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