Former President Michel Temer Calls for STF Integrity Amid Internal Crisis

Former Brazilian President Michel Temer called for a quick resolution to the internal crisis within the Supremo Tribunal Federal (STF) on Wednesday, stating that the integrity of the court and the harmony between the powers are matters of survival for the Republic. In a video posted to social media, Temer argued that institutions must prevail over individuals and urged the court to use its constitutional instruments to resolve the disputes internally. He emphasized that the current instability is particularly concerning given the upcoming October elections, noting that the climate should be one of plural debate regarding the future of Brazil.

The conflict involves a dispute between Justice André Mendonça and Justice Alexandre de Moraes. The tension began when Mendonça lifted the secrecy of messages between Moraes and Daniel Vorcaro, the owner of Banco Master. In response, Moraes requested an investigation into Mendonça for alleged abuse of power. The situation escalated further with conflicting orders regarding the leadership of the Federal Police. STF President Edson Fachin eventually intervened by suspending the opposing orders from Mendonça and Justice Flávio Dino, removing Moraes from the rapporteurship of the fake news inquiry and assuming leadership of those investigations himself.

Temer, who originally appointed Moraes to the court, stated that he is not defending specific individuals but rather the defense of the Constitution and the sovereignty of the people. He maintained that while responsibilities should be properly investigated, the ultimate goal must be peace and institutional stability.