Embattled Brazilian president cancels order for troops in capital

Brazilian President Michel Temer, who is facing growing calls for resignation, has revoked an order for the deployment of troops in the capital amid fierce criticism that the move was meant to help him hold onto power.

In a decree published in the Official Diary on Thursday, Temer canceled the order “considering the halt to acts of destruction and violence and the subsequent reestablishment of law and order.”

The deployment came late on Wednesday when hundreds of troops were mobilized into the streets to end the riots as protesters angered by Temer’s alleged involvement in corruption scuffled with police.

Images in the media showed offices of the government set on fire while protesters vandalized other buildings.

Reports said around 50 people were injured in the clashes, during which police used live shots to disperse protesters around ministries and government buildings. The Secretariat of Public Security said it was investigating the use of excessive force by police.

Temer’s decision to cancel the deployment came as the embattled president is under increased pressure amid allegations that he endorsed the paying of hush money to a former lawmaker, who has been jailed for corruption. He could be sued for passive corruption and involvement in alleged obstruction of justice. Brazil’s highest court has launched an investigation into the allegations.

Temer, who came to power in May 2016 after his predecessor was impeached and removed over corruption, has denied any wrongdoing. That comes as a recording has been published in the media, allegedly capturing his acceptance of the bribe.

Opposition lawmakers have called for Temer’s resignation while some others have criticized him for ordering the deployment of troops to the streets. They say the deployment was excessive and just meant to prop up his government.

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