President Jair Bolsonaro of Brazil has announced the replacement of six government officials on March 29, 2021, following the release of their resignation letters as the country’s battle with COVID-19 worsens. Army General Braga Netto, the former Government Minister will replace Minister Fernando Azevedo e Silva as the new Defense Minister. Meanwhile, Federal Police Chief Anderson Torres, a family friend of the president will be the new Justice Minister. Last week, Marcelo Queiroga has taken up his position as Brazil’s fourth health minister since the beginning of the pandemic. In addition, a new Covid-19 crisis committee consisting of several state officials has been recently formed to fight the deadly coronavirus in Brazil.

Many citizens are criticizing Bolsonaro for his poor handling of the pandemic as the new coronavirus variant spreads through the country, with younger Brazilians particularly affected. Brazil has recently reported more than 3,000 deaths for the second day in a row. The Brazilian health ministry has registered Thursday more than 100,000 new coronavirus cases within a day. Business leaders last month signed an open letter asking for better COVID-19 action. But Bolsonaro is still refusing to change his approach toward the virus. During an official government event last week, Bolsanaro said, “We must fight against the virus and not against the President.”