Raoni Metuktire, the internationally known Kayapo leader and Amazon advocate, was discharged from a São Paulo hospital after a month-long stay and intestinal surgery. Admitted on June 14, he underwent an operation on June 20 and two further procedures to control gastrointestinal bleeding. Raoni has returned to Peixoto de Azevedo and will continue recovery with medical follow-up; he remains an enduring voice for Indigenous rights and rainforest protection.
Amazon Defender Raoni Discharged After Month-Long Hospital Stay Following Intestinal Surgery
Brazilian Indigenous leader of the Kayapo people Raoni Metuktire, who is over 90 years old, has been hospitalized for over a month (Pablo PORCIUNCULA)
Raoni Metuktire, the revered Kayapo chief and international symbol of the fight to protect the Amazon rainforest, was discharged from hospital on Wednesday morning after a month-long admission and intestinal surgery, the University of São Paulo Hospital said.
The elder, who is over 90 years old and has experienced declining health in recent months, was first admitted to a hospital in the Amazon region on June 14. He was transferred to a São Paulo facility five days later after developing an upper intestinal obstruction and aspiration pneumonia.
On June 20, Raoni underwent surgery to relieve the intestinal obstruction. He later had two additional procedures to control gastrointestinal bleeding, the most recent occurring five days before his discharge.
Raoni's grandson, Roiti Metuktire, confirmed to AFP that the leader has returned to Peixoto de Azevedo, the nearest major town to the Indigenous territory where he lives. Hospital statements and family updates emphasized that his care will continue at home with follow-up appointments and support from health teams.
Earlier in May he was treated for a hernia and received diagnoses of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and heart problems. Despite these challenges, Raoni remained active until recently, attending April's Free Land Camp, Brazil's largest annual gathering of Indigenous peoples.
A Lifelong Voice for the Amazon
Raoni rose to international prominence in the 1970s while campaigning against the construction of a trans-Amazonian highway during Brazil's military dictatorship. In 1989 he left Brazil for the first time on a global tour with British singer Sting; together they visited 17 countries to raise awareness about widespread deforestation and threats to Indigenous lands.
Known for his decorated lip plate and unmistakable voice, Raoni has for decades lobbied presidents, monarchs, popes and global audiences to defend Indigenous rights and protect the forest that sustains them.
The family and hospital have not released further details about his long-term prognosis, but his discharge marks a step toward recuperation amid continued concern for his advanced age and chronic conditions.
Help us improve.
