Brazil’s Judge Affirms Judicial Autonomy After U.S. Sanctions

(MENAFN) Brazil’s Supreme Federal Court judge Alexandre de Moraes, recently targeted by U.S. sanctions for prosecuting former President Jair Bolsonaro, strongly defended the country’s constitution on Monday, emphasizing the judiciary’s resilience against outside and internal pressures.

“Since 1988, the Constitution has granted independence and autonomy to the judiciary -- financial, administrative and operational autonomy -- and its members full independence to judge in accordance with the Constitution and the law, without domestic, foreign, or any other type of pressure,” Moraes declared during a speech in São Paulo.

He underscored that no individual holds the power to overturn decisions made by the Supreme Federal Court.

Moraes’ comments come as tensions rise between Brazil and the U.S. following Washington’s move to sanction him under the Magnitsky Act, a statute that imposes financial and other penalties on foreign officials accused of human rights abuses or corruption.

The sanctions specifically target Moraes for his involvement in Bolsonaro’s ongoing trial, marking a sharp escalation in diplomatic friction.

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