Councilman and Union President Clash at São Paulo Hearing

A heated debate over app-based motorcycle taxi services in São Paulo took an unexpected turn on Thursday when a physical altercation erupted between city council member Lucas Pavanato and Gilberto Almeida dos Santos, president of the Sindimoto union. The incident, which occurred during a public hearing at the Câmara Municipal de São Paulo, began when Pavanato reportedly insulted Santos, prompting a response that escalated into a shoving match. Security personnel intervened, separating the two men. Both were subsequently taken to a police station. "The situation got out of hand quickly," stated one eyewitness, who preferred to remain anonymous. The incident highlights the ongoing tensions surrounding the regulation of app-based transportation services and the challenges faced by workers in the sector. The council hearing was intended to discuss the future of these services in the city, but the physical altercation overshadowed the planned discussions. The event underscores the need for respectful dialogue and effective conflict resolution in public forums.