On August 5, 2026, Marco Aurélio Ribeiro, known as Marcola and former chief of staff to President Lula, chose to leave the president’s campaign team. The decision was announced after the revelation of a loan involving a lobbyist.
Marcola had already communicated his decision to President Lula and also spoke with Edinho Silva, the current president of the Workers’ Party (PT).
People close to him indicate that Marcola emphasized the political nature of his departure, not the legal one. He seeks to prevent his presence from generating internal conflicts or “friendly fire” during the presidential campaign.
Government members note that Marcola prefers to keep a low profile. His main motivation would be not to harm the campaign and protect President Lula from possible friction within the PT.
Although the PT tried to persuade him to stay, and some believe he could still be convinced, information from PT members suggests that Marcola is adamant in his decision.
Lobby Loan Details
Journalist Valdo Cruz reported on August 4, 2026 that the Federal Police tracked a transfer of values from businesswoman Roberta Luchsinger to Marcola. The exact amount of the transfer was not disclosed.
Roberta Luchsinger, identified as a lobbyist, is also known for her friendship with Fábio Luís Lula da Silva, nicknamed Lulinha, son of the President of the Republic.
The Federal Police discovered this transaction when investigating data from Roberta’s cell phone, as part of Operation Without Discount.
Marcola confirmed that he took out the loan with Roberta and informed that the debt, worth R$249 thousand, has already been paid off.
In a statement released on August 5, 2026, Marcola commented on the matter:
“I have always guided my public actions by ethics, commitment and transparency. To those who present speculations and conclusions, I respond with facts, documents and my complete willingness and tranquility to collaborate with Justice.”
