Brazil: Auditors say Rousseff did not manipulate budget

By Maria Paz Salas

SANTIAGO, Chile (AA) – Suspended Brazilian President Dilma Rousseff did not manipulate accounting maneuvers for which she was charged, independent auditors hired by the Brazilian Senate said in a report Monday.

Rousseff is accused of violating fiscal rules to mask budget issues in the lead up to the 2014 presidential elections and is facing a political trial that will keep her out of office up to 180 days.

The report highlights the weakness of the case against Rousseff, according to supporters, especially those within her Worker’s Party (PT).

The report said Rousseff did not delay payments to state banks, a violation of tax laws.

Supporters of interim President Michel Temer, who is a staunch advocate for impeachment against Rousseff, say the document that was requested by Senate does not change her chances of making a return to lead the country.

In May, two-thirds of senators voted in favor to suspend Rousseff for alleged violation of fiscal rules.

Auditors said that “without any controversy” Rousseff issued three decrees to grant additional credits without the consent of Congress. A fourth decree appeared to be legal, in the opinion of the auditors.

The auditors agree with the Rousseff’s defense that she did not commit any crime that warrants dismissal.

Although the auditors’ report is not legally binding on legislators, lawmakers will vote again on the case in August.

“The auditors didn’t even say I signed those decrees deceptively,” Rousseff said in an interview with Guaiba Radio. “The impeachment is merely an indirect election for Congress,” she added.