In addition to reparations, Reinado was also pardoned for political persecution during the military dictatorship
The Pardon Board of the Ministry of Human Rights and Citizenship (MDHC) has acknowledged that Reynaldo, one of Atlético Mineiro’s stars, has been pardoned on charges of persecution during Brazil’s military dictatorship. Thus, the commission unanimously granted a pardon and specific compensation to the former assailant.
Rinaldo, known for celebrating with his fists in the air in protest against the dictatorship, claimed he was the victim of a smear campaign during that period. Furthermore, it was also stated that he was banned from playing for the Brazilian national team due to his political stance.
The amnesty was granted at a meeting of the Federal Government Committee last Tuesday (2). The council met to consider 21 requests. Thus, in addition to the amnesty, it was decided that Reynaldo would receive compensation in the amount of R$100,000.
Reynaldo talks about amnesty
Reynaldo was moved while attending the session when he spoke about this period. The former striker even cried during the match.
“I am Reinaldo, many people know me as a great talent in Brazilian football,” said Reynaldo. “You may remember my career on the pitch, but many do not know about the silent struggles I had to face.”
“The military regime, in its eagerness to control everything and persecute those who think differently, not only used physical violence. It created smear campaigns and real operations to destroy the reputations of people they considered enemies or a threat to their authority and social life,” Reinado added.
Reynaldo is now 68 years old and played for Atletico for 12 years, between the 1970s and 1980s. In short, he won eight Mineiro titles with Gallo. He played with the Brazilian national team in the 1978 World Cup.
“They wanted to silence my voice, diminish my power, and end my life and career,” Rinaldo concluded. “This kind of state violence that attacks honour, image and dignity is no less dangerous and seeks to destroy people from within, taking away their place in the world and in the future. It is violence that leaves deep and lasting traces, even if we do not see them.”
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