Electoral Court Blocks José Roberto Arruda's Candidacy for DF Governor

The Regional Electoral Court of the Federal District (TRE-DF) unanimously rejected the candidacy of former governor José Roberto Arruda (PSD) for the Government of the Federal District on Thursday. The decision follows challenges from the Electoral Public Ministry and a candidate for district deputy, both of whom argued that Arruda remains ineligible due to convictions related to Operation Caixa de Pandora. The court's relator, Judge Guilherme Pupe, stated that because Arruda's seven convictions for administrative improbity are not all connected, the 12 year ineligibility limit established by a 2025 amendment to the Ficha Limpa Law has not yet expired. The Electoral Public Ministry suggested that Arruda may only be eligible to run again starting in 2030.

Arruda has announced his intention to appeal the decision to the Superior Electoral Court (TSE). He argued that the ruling contradicts the new Ficha Limpa Law and stated that he would not accept a defeat on the tapetão, a term referring to behind the scenes legal maneuvers. Despite the block, Arruda is permitted to continue campaigning, participating in debates and free radio and television advertising, until the appeals process is finalized. The TSE will have the final decision on whether to validate his registration.

Recent Datafolha polling from August 21 shows Arruda in a technical tie with current governor Celina Leão (PP), with Leão at 30 percent and Arruda at 28 percent, within a 3 percent margin of error. Leandro Grass (PT) follows with 11 percent. Meanwhile, the Supreme Federal Court (STF) is scheduled to resume deliberations on the 2025 changes to the Ficha Limpa Law on September 11, with some justices arguing that the amendments represent a regression in public morality and republican principles.