Lula Seeks Damage Control

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva issued a decree limiting the number of federal jobs held by political appointees to 6,900 from 21,200 as congress probes allegations of corruption in his government. The 14,300 affected posts will be filled from the four highest ranks of the civil service. To become law, congress must approve the decree within the next six months. In an emotional speech Friday Lula defended his administration and refused to “bow his head” to the country´s elites, which he claims are threatening his government.