Lula's nominee for director-president of Anvisa awaits Senate confirmation hearing

The names of Daniela Marreco Cerqueira, Leandro Pinheiro Safatle, and Diogo Penha Soares have been submitted to the Federal Senate for consideration and subsequent approval for leadership positions at the National Health Surveillance Agency (Anvisa). The confirmation of the appointments depends on a hearing by the Committee on Social Affairs.

Leadership Changes

The nominations involve the replacement of three key positions at Anvisa:

• Daniela Marreco Cerqueira is nominated to fill the vacancy left by Meiruze Sousa Freitas, whose term has ended.

   

• Leandro Pinheiro Safatle is nominated for the position of Director-President, replacing Antônio Barra Torres, whose term ends on December 21, 2024.

   

• Diogo Penha Soares is nominated for a term starting on April 1, 2025, in the position vacated by Alex Machado Campos.

Next Steps

The positions in question are either vacant or with mandates nearing expiration. The nominations were formalized through messages No. 1,618, 1,619, and 1,620, all dated December 16, 2024. At this time, the nominees have not assumed their positions and have not made statements about their future roles, according to Anvisa's communication office.

The approval process is conducted by the Federal Senate, which will evaluate the names based on the hearing conducted by the Committee on Social Affairs. Anvisa, responsible for regulating health-related products and services, plays a strategic role in the country, making the definition of its leadership essential for the continuity of regulatory activities.
 

Meet the nominees submitted to the Senate: