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Dispute between bank president and union sparks reaction

Banco do Brasil's president notified entity after criticism in labor newspaper

Daniele Morais
August 21, 2026 · 2 min read
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Banco do Brasil President Tarciana Medeiros is embroiled in a dispute with the Brasília Bank Workers Union. The executive sent an extrajudicial notice to the labor organization following the publication of an article critical of her administration.

The origin of the crisis and publication

The crisis began with a May publication in the newspaper *Espelho DF*. The edition, featuring a satirical and cordel-style tone, questioned the extension of working hours, the removal of commissioners, target enforcement, employee illness, and the reduction of in-person customer service under Tarciana's administration.

The publication's cover used the expression "mainha" to refer to the president, who was born in Paraíba. The union argues that the use of the term is a legitimate resource for criticizing the leader, while the executive herself has previously used the term to refer to herself.

Accusations of misogyny and xenophobia

Banco do Brasil's reaction consisted of sending an extrajudicial notice. The state-owned bank's lawyers classified the content as false, incomplete, and out of context, stating that the repeated use of the word "mainha" amounted to gender disqualification associated with a northeastern stereotype.

The document cites misogyny, xenophobia, insult, defamation, and the misuse of Tarciana Medeiros's name, brand, and image. The union denied all accusations and maintained that the criticism was directed exclusively at her administrative performance.

The union's response and defense of the management

Despite contesting the accusations, the union published the president's text on its website, justifying the action out of a democratic spirit and a commitment to a plurality of opinions.

In her letter, Tarciana defended the management's decisions. The executive stated that "there is no strong bank without economic sustainability" and that the institution "must become increasingly digital without abandoning those who still need in-person service."

Internal pressure at Banco do Brasil

The episode takes place amid an environment of internal pressure within the institution. A member of the board of directors has begun holding Tarciana responsible for the bank's recent performance, especially regarding the management of risks associated with agribusiness.

Allies of the president classify the internal criticism as "gossip" aimed at destabilizing her position in an election year. When questioned about the allegations, Banco do Brasil stated that it firmly combats moral harassment practices and that collective bargaining tables are ongoing.

With information from Folha de S.Paulo, SpaceMoney.

Source: Folha de S.Paulo, SpaceMoney

#Tarciana Medeiros#Banco do Brasil#Economy#Bank Workers Union
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