Bahia Tourism Chief of Staff Accused of Harassment, Abuse of Authority

Giulliana Brito do Espírito Santo Mercuri, the Chief of Staff for Bahia's Secretariat of Tourism (Setur-BA), is facing formal accusations of moral harassment, persecution, abuse of authority, and humiliation in the workplace. Several employees have filed complaints with the State Ombudsman and the General Inspectorate (CGR). The allegations include threats, abusive demands, public embarrassment, and retaliation against those who have come forward. One server reported working under Brito for five years, detailing instances of constant criticism of her work, often in front of colleagues, without technical justification. She also described being forced to correct documents repeatedly and facing pressure to work beyond her stated hours, despite informing Brito of her need to pick up her daughter from school by 6 PM. Another server recounted being told "you only leave here when I want you to," and that Brito wished she would stop picking up her child. Some employees have reportedly left the secretariat or been dismissed following conflicts with Brito. There are also claims of employees being assigned personal tasks for Brito, such as fetching lunch or taking clothes for repair, which are outside their job descriptions. The stressful work environment has allegedly led to health issues, including anxiety attacks and, in one case, a six-month medical leave. Another former employee resigned due to the unbearable work environment, reporting the development of health problems like an aneurysm and intestinal cancer. The formalization of these complaints was reportedly triggered by an aggressive confrontation between Brito and a server during a public holiday event. Both Setur-BA and the State Inspectorate have confirmed the initiation of administrative procedures to investigate the allegations, assuring that all parties will be heard to ensure due process. Brito remains in her position while the investigations are ongoing.