Brazil's Lula Remains in ICU After Emergency Brain Surgery, Oversees Government Amid Legislative Push

Dec 11, 2024, 02:40 PM

Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva underwent emergency surgery on Tuesday to drain a subdural hematoma resulting from a fall at his residence in October. The procedure was successful, and Lula is recovering well at São Paulo's Sírio-Libanês Hospital under the care of Dr. Roberto Kalil Filho. The president remains in the intensive care unit with a cranial drain, which is expected to be removed on Thursday. According to his medical team, Lula is lucid, conversing, and in good spirits, with no neurological impairments expected. He is anticipated to be discharged next week and return to Brasília. Despite his hospitalization, Lula continues to oversee presidential duties and has transferred part of his agenda to Vice-President Geraldo Alckmin. Meanwhile, government ministers and congressional leaders are working to advance key legislative priorities, including the fiscal package, tax reform, and the 2024 budget. Senate President Rodrigo Pacheco emphasized that Lula's absence increases Congress's responsibility to pass these reforms. House Speaker Arthur Lira acknowledged challenges in securing sufficient votes for the fiscal package but assured that the Chamber will consider the proposals. International leaders, including U.S. President Joe Biden, have sent well wishes for Lula's speedy recovery.