OAB-SP and Coalition of Entities Call for STF Transparency and Judiciary Reform

The Ordem dos Advogados do Brasil in São Paulo (OAB-SP), along with approximately 30 other entities, released a manifesto on Tuesday calling for a transparent investigation into recent episodes at the Supremo Tribunal Federal (STF) and a broad reform of the Brazilian Judiciary. The signataries, which include OAB sections from Rio de Janeiro and Paraná as well as the União Nacional dos Estudantes (UNE), argue that the current crises in Brasília put institutions at risk and that public trust in the justice system is a cornerstone of democracy.

The manifesto, titled "In Defense of Justice and for the Reform of the Judiciary," urges the STF plenary to examine existing suspicions and accusations through free, public, and in-person discussions. It specifically demands that authorities who are suspected, accused, or directly interested in the cases be removed from the decision-making process to ensure due process. One report notes that the call for transparency relates to episodes involving former Banco Master banker Daniel Vorcaro.

Beyond immediate investigations, the coalition proposes structural changes to the Judiciary. These include the implementation of term limits for STF ministers, the creation of a code of conduct for magistrates, and the expansion of criteria for disqualification and suspicion. The entities also seek to limit monocratic decisions and virtual trials, while reducing the criminal jurisdiction of superior courts. The manifesto concludes that strengthening the Supreme Court requires preserving its authority through transparency and public confidence.

Framing of the event varies by political lean. Center-right coverage emphasizes that the STF has become a primary electoral banner for the right and describes the current situation as an unprecedented test of integrity. Center coverage focuses more on the specific policy proposals for reform and the specific individuals involved in the controversy.