Brazil's Supreme Court Upholds Ban on Elon Musk's X Over Legal Noncompliance
Brazil’s Supreme Court has confirmed the ban on Elon Musk’s social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, due to the company’s failure to adhere to local laws. This ruling highlights the platform’s legal struggles in one of its largest markets, where it boasts over 21 million users.
The decision follows Musk’s refusal to comply with a court order demanding that X appoint a legal representative in Brazil. This defiance led the justices to unanimously uphold the suspension of X, emphasizing that no company, regardless of its economic power, is above the law.
Justice Flávio Dino, who supported the ban, criticized X’s disregard for the court’s directive, stating that such actions risk transforming the platform into an “outlaw.” He underscored the importance of legal compliance, warning that the company’s refusal to follow the law could set a dangerous precedent for other social networks.
Justice Cristiano Zanin echoed this sentiment, pointing out that X had consistently ignored the court’s orders, including demands to block accounts spreading disinformation. He stressed that compliance with the law is non-negotiable for any entity operating in Brazil, whether public or private.
Justice Cármen Lúcia Antunes Rocha also backed the suspension, condemning X’s actions as a “bellicose infringement” of Brazilian law. She argued that the case raised critical questions about whether a foreign company could operate in Brazil without respecting its legal framework.
The court also addressed the use of technological tools like virtual private networks (VPNs) to bypass the ban, imposing fines on those who attempt to access X through such means. This move underscores the court’s commitment to enforcing the ban across the entire country.
Musk’s response has been combative, accusing Brazil’s Supreme Court and left-wing government of attempting to silence conservative voices and curbing free speech. He has also used his platform to launch personal attacks on Justice Alexandre de Moraes, who initially ordered the suspension.
The conflict between Musk and Brazil’s judiciary is likely to escalate, especially with Starlink, Musk’s satellite internet service, reportedly defying the court’s order. This defiance could lead to further legal consequences, particularly in the Amazon region, where Starlink’s services have become increasingly vital.
News Agencies