Lula changes his cabinet to reignite grassroots fire ahead of 2026

President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has appointed Congressman Guilherme Boulos, of the Socialism and Liberty Party (Psol), as the new secretary general of the presidency — a role that serves as the government’s chief liaison with social movements. The move is one of Lula’s most politically charged cabinet reshuffles since returning to office in 2023.

The move replaces Márcio Macêdo, a loyal Lula ally from the Workers’ Party (PT), who has faced growing criticism since organizing a lackluster Labor Day event in May 2024. The gathering — intended to celebrate workers’ rights and project unity — fell flat, exposing a disconnect between the government and the grassroots movements that once formed the backbone of the Brazilian left.