Transparency International criticizes the STF for its handling of the fake news investigation in Brazil.

The recent criticism from the Brazilian branch of Transparency International towards Minister Alexandre de Moraes and his handling of the fake news inquiry has sparked a crucial debate about the legitimacy and health of democratic institutions in Brazil. In a context marked by political polarization and the Vaza Toga scandal, the NGO has underscored the importance of addressing abuses without falling into the trap of authoritarianism. In its publication, Transparency International argued that while threats to democracy are undeniable, combating authoritarianism should not involve the adoption of abusive methods. The criticism focuses on Moraes, who has been the rapporteur of the inquiry since its inception, a process that, according to the NGO, lacks the necessary guarantees and was born with inherent corruption in its design. The creation of the fake news inquiry, which was launched without the participation of the Public Ministry and under Moraes' direct leadership, has been the subject of numerous questions. The NGO points out that its ambiguity in terms and its generic nature allow for broad interpretations, which in turn has led to a potentially abusive use of this judicial mechanism. The lack of a clear framework has opened "doors for practically infinite actions," which could undermine public trust in institutions. One of the most controversial moments mentioned by Transparency International is the censorship of the Crusoé article titled "The friend of my father's friend." This report, which was based on verified testimonies, was blocked under the accusation of being fake news, highlighting concerns about press freedom and the right to information in the country. The organization also criticizes the actions of the full STF (Supreme Federal Court) and the Attorney General's Office, under the direction of Augusto Aras, implying that their lack of action has contributed to the normalization of the Supreme's excesses. In an environment where institutions appear weakened, the STF has chosen to act autonomously, a move that could have unpredictable consequences for Brazilian democracy. Since 2020, when the full Supreme validated the fake news inquiry, guidelines have been established that, in the view of Transparency International, have not been sufficient to contain the misuse of this instrument. The NGO argues that this situation has allowed the Supreme to institutionalize its own irregularities in an effort to curb both former President Jair Bolsonaro and his most radical supporters. The context of deinstitutionalization that has been described has also been a factor facilitating the erosion of the STF's credibility, an institution that should be a pillar of democracy. According to the NGO, the inquiry has not only served as a mechanism to counteract authoritarianism but has become a "lifeline" for the Supreme, allowing it to maintain control in a situation of institutional crisis. The repercussions of this criticism are profound. By highlighting the abuses of the STF, Transparency International provides ammunition to those who argue that institutions are failing in their task of safeguarding democracy. The NGO warns that this vicious cycle of deinstitutionalization not only jeopardizes democracy but also fuels a dangerous narrative for those seeking to delegitimize the work of judicial institutions. Finally, the NGO makes an urgent call to suspend the fake news inquiry. The goal is to restore balance in the exercise of power, protect fundamental rights, and ensure that the fight against disinformation does not become a justification for abuse of power. Transparency International's criticism underscores the need for collective reflection on the future of democracy in Brazil and the importance of preserving the integrity of its institutions.