By Ezekiel David
Judge Alexandre de Moraes of the Brazilian Supreme Court has set X, formerly Twitter, a 24-hour deadline to designate a legal representative in Brazil or risk having its services shut down.
The order follows escalating tensions between the platform and the court, stemming from disagreements over content moderation and alleged misinformation.
X revealed earlier this month that de Moraes had threatened to arrest its attorney, leading to the announcement of the departure of the company’s remaining employees in Brazil.
The court, in response, sent X a notice on Wednesday through its worldwide government affairs account, informing it of the ruling and threatening to suspend it if it was disregarded.
The clash highlights differing approaches to free speech. While the US Constitution provides broad protections, Brazil’s legal framework allows for greater restrictions.
In April, de Moraes initiated investigations into Musk regarding alleged fake news dissemination and potential incitement and criminal organisation.
Brazil’s political right criticises de Moraes, accusing him of exceeding his authority to suppress free speech. Conversely, his supporters maintain his actions are lawful and necessary to safeguard democracy.
(Source: AP)