STJ Decides in Favor of Bolsonaro: A Victory for Electoral Transparency?

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Amsterdam, March 19, 2025 – The Superior Court of Justice (STJ) has made a ruling that has reverberated throughout Brazil: it has denied the request to hold former president Jair Bolsonaro responsible for his statements against electronic ballot boxes. The decision was seen as a significant victory for Bolsonaro and his supporters, who have long advocated changes to the Brazilian electoral system.

The STJ’s decision

The First Panel of the STJ concluded that Bolsonaro’s statements, although controversial, do not constitute administrative or illegal acts that can be fought through a popular action. According to the court, the former president’s opinions were made in a political context and have no concrete legal effects.

Bolsonaro’s Strategy: Electoral Transparency

Bolsonaro has defended the implementation of a system of printed vouchers in electronic ballot boxes as a way of increasing transparency and trust in the electoral process. The idea is for votes to be recorded digitally and, at the same time, printed out for later checking, if necessary. Despite facing resistance from sectors of the judiciary and the legislature, the proposal remains a central banner for the former president and his allies.

The Debate Continues

While critics argue that the current system is already secure and efficient, supporters of the printed ballot believe that the measure is essential to prevent fraud and strengthen democracy. The STJ’s decision could breathe new life into this discussion, especially at a time when political polarization in Brazil is at an all-time high.

Conclusion

Bolsonaro’s victory in the STJ is more than a legal relief; it is a milestone in his strategy to shape the debate on the future of the Brazilian electoral system. It remains to be seen whether this decision will be a turning point or just another chapter in the long history of political disputes in the country. What is certain is that the issue of electoral transparency will remain in the spotlight.

Sources:

1. A vitória de Jair Bolsonaro no STJ | VEJA
2. Declarações de político não podem ser objeto de ação popular
3. As urnas e a democracia: o que revela a demanda bolsonarista pelo voto impresso – Brasil de Fato
4. Defendido por Bolsonaro, voto impresso tem histórico de derrotas
5. Entenda a polêmica em torno da PEC do voto impresso | Atualidade | EL PAÍS Brasil