The Brazilian Supreme Court has unanimously upheld the decision to suspend Elon Musk’s social media platform X nationwide, escalating the conflict between the tech billionaire and Brazilian authorities. The suspension, which affects over 20 million users in Brazil, was ordered by Justice Alexandre de Moraes due to X’s failure to comply with court orders, including appointing a local legal representative and paying outstanding fines exceeding $3 million.Musk has intensified his criticism of Brazilian authorities, particularly Justice de Moraes, accusing him of violating the Brazilian constitution and calling him a ‘dictator’. In response, de Moraes stated that ‘Elon Musk demonstrated his total disrespect for Brazilian sovereignty and, in particular, for the judiciary, by positioning himself as a true supranational entity and above the laws of each country’.The court’s decision also imposes a daily fine of 50,000 reais (approximately $8,900) on individuals and companies that attempt to access X through virtual private networks (VPNs). This move has sparked debate over freedom of expression and the extent of judicial power in Brazil.In a significant development, Starlink, Musk’s satellite internet provider, is refusing to comply with the court order to block X in Brazil until its own accounts are unblocked. This defiance further complicates the situation and raises questions about the enforceability of the court’s decision.The suspension comes just over a month before municipal elections in Brazil, adding political significance to the conflict. While some view the court’s actions as necessary to combat misinformation and protect Brazilian law, others, including Musk, argue that it represents an attack on freedom of expression.
Key points
- Brazilian Supreme Court unanimously upholds suspension of X platform.
- Elon Musk accuses Justice de Moraes of violating the Brazilian constitution.
- Starlink refuses to comply with court order to block X in Brazil.
- Court imposes fines on users accessing X through VPNs.
Contradictions👾While the court claims to be protecting Brazilian law and combating misinformation, Musk argues that the suspension is an attack on freedom of expression.
