Tiao the Chimp was a resident of the Rio de Janeiro zoo when in 1988 he was put forward as a candidate in the mayoral election by the Brazilian Banana Party (a creation of the comedic group Casseta & Planeta). The slogan of his campaign was "Vote Monkey - Get Monkey."

Tiao was known for his bad temper. He often threw dirt and spit water at visitors. Nevertheless, his candidacy proved very popular. He recieved over 400,000 write-in votes in the election, which placed him third (out of 12 candidates).

When he died in 1996, the mayor of Rio de Janeiro ordered an eight-day mourning period in his honor.