A Brazilian Supreme Court justice has launched an investigation targeting Elon Musk for his alleged involvement in spreading fake news. The justice, Alexandre de Moraes, also initiated a separate investigation late on Sunday accusing Musk of obstructing justice.
In his ruling, de Moraes highlighted Musk’s public campaign against the court’s actions, including comments made by Musk stating that his social media company X would not comply with court orders to block certain accounts.
“The blatant obstruction of justice, incitement of crime, public threats of disobedience, and lack of cooperation from the platform are actions that disrespect the sovereignty of Brazil,” de Moraes stated.
Musk is being investigated for allegedly using X as a tool in a network of digital militias spreading defamatory fake news and threats against Supreme Court justices. The new investigation will focus on obstruction, criminal organization, and incitement by Musk.
Brazil’s political right has criticized de Moraes for allegedly infringing on free speech. However, de Moraes’ supporters argue that his decisions are necessary to combat fake news and protect Brazilian democracy.
Musk, known for his stance on free speech, announced on X that the platform would lift all restrictions on blocked accounts, risking revenue loss and potential closure of the local office in Brazil.
He further instructed Brazilian users to download a VPN in case X was shut down and criticized de Moraes’ demands as draconian. Despite Musk’s claims, no action was taken on X to unblock accounts as of late Sunday.
De Moraes warned of fines for each reactivated account and held those responsible for disobeying court orders accountable. Brazil’s attorney general emphasized the need to regulate social media platforms and uphold the rule of law.
Brazil’s constitution, established post-military dictatorship, protects freedom of speech but imposes limitations to ensure social peace.
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