Moraes and Zanin Back Convictions in 'Disinformation Nucleus' Trial as Moraes Seeks to Reopen Valdemar Probe

Overview

• Relator Alexandre de Moraes voted to convict all seven defendants tied to the 2022 election disinformation effort, limiting charges for Institute Voto Legal chief Carlos Rocha to criminal organization and attempted abolition of the democratic order.
• Cristiano Zanin followed Moraes in full, giving two votes for conviction as the Primeira Turma awaits the positions of Luiz Fux, Cármen Lúcia and Flávio Dino.
• Luiz Fux opened a dissent, arguing preparatory acts cannot be punished and saying earlier rulings produced “injustices” he can no longer uphold.
• Moraes urged reopening an investigation into PL president Valdemar Costa Neto, proposing that if Rocha is convicted the case file and evidence be sent to the Federal Police and the Prosecutor-General’s Office.
• Prosecutors say the group coordinated false narratives about the voting system and targeted military commanders to pressure them, while a separate INSS inquiry heard testimony about alleged R$1.1 billion in improper deductions from retirees.