X shutters office in Brazil amid dispute with SC justice
Elon Musk-owned social media platform X, has announced it has closed its office in Brazil "effective immediately." The decision comes after a judge from the country's Supreme Court allegedly threatened to arrest X's legal representative in Brazil, if the firm failed to comply with his orders. Despite this move, X will continue providing services to Brazilian users.
X's ongoing conflict with Justice de Moraes
The conflict between X and SC Justice Alexandre de Moraes has been escalating over issues related to free speech, far-right accounts, as well as misinformation on the platform. In April, de Moraes initiated an investigation into Musk, for allegedly spreading defamatory fake news. He also launched a separate probe into potential obstruction, incitement, and criminal organization charges against Musk.
X accuses de Moraes of censorship
X has accused de Moraes of censorship, following his recent orders. The company's global government affairs department shared a copy of the alleged censorship document on its platform. However, the SC's press office has not yet commented or confirmed the authenticity of this document. This development adds another layer to their ongoing dispute over content regulation on the social media platform.
Musk criticizes de Moraes
Musk has publicly criticized de Moraes on X, even comparing him to the Harry Potter villain Voldemort. He described de Moraes as "an utter disgrace to justice." In a statement on X, the company said, "Moraes has chosen to threaten our staff in Brazil rather than respect the law or due process." Musk also confirmed that it was a "difficult decision" to close X's office in Brazil but deemed it necessary under current circumstances.
