Brasília, 5/11/2004 (Agência Brasil) - The leader of the government in the Chamber of the Deputies, Professor Luizinho (PT-SP), declared that the NY Times article by Larry Rohter, published on Sunday, was "calumnious, untruthful, prejudiced and lacked evidence."

Luizinho said the article smeared the highest office holder in Brazil and attempted to reduce his stature in the international community. As such, continued Luizinho, it is part of "the game of international interests and will be answered at international forums." Luizinha pointed out that the article does not cite facts or any concrete information.

"We are convinced that the artcle will not harm our image. We believe in the strength and energy of president Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva to preserve the country's international reputation," said the congressional leader.

In his speech on the floor of the Chamber of Deputies, Luizinho congratulated opposition leaders, José Carlos Aleluia (PFL-BA) and Custódio Mattos (PSDB-MG), who joined him in condemning the article.

Translator: Allen Bennett