STF Justice Flávio Dino Removes President of Maranhão Court of Accounts

Supreme Court Justice Flávio Dino has ordered the 180 day removal of Daniel Itapary Brandão from the presidency of the Court of Accounts of the State of Maranhão (TCE MA). Brandão is suspected of involvement in the 2022 murder of a businessman in São Luís and the embezzlement of public funds, including federal parliamentary amendments and education funds. The court order prohibits Brandão from entering the TCE MA building, using official vehicles, and contacting other investigated individuals or witnesses. Justice Dino stated that Brandão's presence at the head of the oversight body was incompatible with the investigation, particularly since the TCE MA monitors the government of Brandão's uncle, Governor Carlos Brandão. The investigation suggests that the 2022 murder was linked to disputes over bribes in public contracts and that efforts were made to ensure the silence of the convicted killer through payments and job offers. Police also reported finding an arsenal of 26 firearms at the home of a former state secretary linked to the group. The defense of Daniel Brandão expressed perplexity at the decision and maintains his innocence. Governor Carlos Brandão has contested the jurisdiction of the Supreme Court, arguing through his lawyers that the case should be handled by the Superior Court of Justice (STJ) because he is a governor. The defense claims that the investigation has been conducted in secret and without the proper endorsement of the Prosecutor General's Office. The case moved to the Supreme Court because it also involves Senator Weverton Rocha, who is accused of using his influence to obstruct the investigation. Center left sources focus on the legal justifications provided by Justice Dino and the specific criminal allegations. Center right sources emphasize the political rivalry between Dino and the governor's group, while providing extensive detail on the defense's arguments regarding constitutional jurisdiction and the alleged usurpation of legal authority.