Governor of Maranhão Seeks to Halt STF Investigation Led by Justice Flávio Dino

The defense for Carlos Brandão, the Governor of Maranhão, has petitioned the Supreme Federal Court (STF) to suspend an investigation led by Justice Flávio Dino. The legal request follows Dino's recent decision to remove Daniel Brandão, the governor's nephew and president of the State Court of Auditors (TCE-MA), from his position for 180 days. The investigation into Daniel Brandão involves a 2022 murder and allegations of public resource embezzlement and bribery.

Brandão's lawyers argue that the STF lacks jurisdiction over the case because the governor has criminal forum at the Superior Court of Justice (STJ). They have requested that the proceedings be suspended or transferred to the STJ or the Prosecutor General's Office (PGR). The defense further claims that the investigation violates the principle of the natural judge.

Reporting on the motivations behind the request differs by political lean. A center-left source focuses on the procedural and jurisdictional arguments regarding the governor's legal forum. In contrast, a center-right source highlights allegations from the defense that Justice Dino is using the inquiry for political gain. According to that source, the defense claims Dino maintains political interests in Maranhão and is instrumentalizing the case to favor his own political group ahead of the 2026 elections.

Justice Dino's office has declined to comment on the petition. The investigation continues to examine suspected schemes involving the diversion of parliamentary amendments through family companies and straw buyers, as well as alleged political pressure to shield Daniel Brandão from state-level homicide investigations.