We condemn the murder in #Brazil of Rio de Janeiro city councillor #MarielleFrancoPresente and her driver. Franco was a well-known #HumanRightsDefender who campaigned against police violence, and for the rights of women and people of African descent.

We understand that the authorities have promised a full investigation into the killings which happened in Rio de Janeiro on Wednesday night. We call for such an investigation to be carried out as soon as possible, and it must be thorough, transparent and independent if it is to be seen as credible. Strenuous efforts must be made to identify those responsible and bring them before the courts.